Ardith Ruth Simpson Speer, 95, of Anderson, SC, entered eternal life April 14, 2023. Ardith was born to James Clarence Simpson and Odie Gertrude Higginbotham Simpson on May 7, 1927 in Iva, SC. An avid softball player, Ardith attended Girls' High and later worked in Anderson textile mills. She was a secretary at Singer Co. in Anderson and worked in Anderson District 5 food service at Westside High School. Being involved in Reuben's used car business, the family travelled extensively. Ardith enjoyed teaching children's Sunday school and singing in the choir at New Prospect Baptist Church. Ardith's most cherished job was caring for her family, especially her grandchildren Heather and Clint, and later her great-grandchild, Sydney. She loved to laugh. Ardith is survived by her husband of 74 years, Reuben Holman Speer and their son, Bill (Robin) of Anderson, her granddaughter Heather (Jim) Harper of Tega Cay, SC, grandson William Clint Speer of Anderson, and her only great grandchild, Sydney Raegan Speer, of Anderson. She was predeceased by her parents, James Clarence Simpson and Odie Gertrude Higginbotham Simpson and siblings, Neal, Maron, Donnie, Harold, and Ellen Anderson. Surviving sisters are Betty Jane Evans of Simpsonville, SC, and Alice (Paul) D'Agostino of Albequerque, NM. The family will receive friends Sunday, May 7, 2023, from 1:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. at The McDougald Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow visitation in the Chapel at 3:00 p.m. with Rev. Bobby Watson officiating. A private family committal will follow at M.J. "Dolly" Cooper Veterans Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Alzheimers research or to Shriners Children's Hospital. Events Funeral Service Sunday, May 7, 2023 3:00PM Chapel of The McDougald Funeral Home 2211 North Main St. Anderson, SC 29621 Phone: 8642244343 Visitation Sunday, May 7, 2023 1:30PM - 2:30PM The McDougald Funeral Home 2211 North Main Street Anderson, SC 29621 Email: Gail@mcdougaldfuneralhome.com,laurel@mcdougaldfuneralhome.com Phone: (864) 224-4343 Final Resting Place M.J. 'Dolly' Cooper Veterans Cemetery 140 Inway Drive Anderson, SC 29621