Martha Nell Ruehling

Martha Nell Ruehling, age 80 of Dayton, passed away at her home early on Monday, March 2, 2026. She was born in Cagle, Tennessee, on February 24, 1946, the daughter of the late Claymon and Olavene (Minton) McGinnis.

Martha has called Dayton home since 1978. A proud graduate of Red Bank High School's Class of 1964, she went on to excel as an honor student at Bryan College, earning a Bachelor of Science degree. For 21 years, she dedicated herself to shaping young minds as a beloved kindergarten teacher at Dayton City School. Beyond the classroom, she was a devoted homemaker and faithful pastor's wife who found joy in traveling and was an active member of New Union Baptist Church.

Martha is survived by her husband of 58 years, Dr. Danny Ruehling of Dayton; her sons, Micah (Melody) Ruehling of Dayton and Steven (Tara) Ruehling of Maryville; her grandchildren, Carson Ruehling, Cooper Ruehling, McKenzie (fiancé Tanner Meachen) Ruehling, Cole Ruehling, Cammie Ruehling, Teagan Ruehling, and Nate Ruehling; and her brother and sister, Tim (Darlene) McGinnis and June (Ronnie) Elliott, both of Red Bank.

The family will receive friends at New Union Baptist Church in Dayton, Tennessee, on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Martha will also lie in state at the church on Thursday, March 5, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Keath Butt officiating. She will be laid to rest at Rhea Memory Gardens after the service.

Memorial gifts in Martha’s name may be made to New Union Baptist Church Children’s Building Fund, 4060 Double S Road, Dayton, TN 37321.

Please share your memories and photos of Martha on her online guest register at www.vanderwallfh.com.

The family is being cared for by Vanderwall Funeral Home in Dayton, Tennessee.