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Ruth Lyda passed away on Aug. 17, 2026, in Laramie, Wyoming.
Born in Lewistown, Montana, to John and Wilma Kastner, Ruth grew up in Bozeman with her siblings, Inda, Alice, John, and Donald, all of whom preceded her in death. It was there that she met Clyde “Gene” Lyda, the love of her life. Together, they shared 44 years of marriage and raised seven children: Cheri, Cathi, Cindi, Crisi, Christian, Ann, and John.
Ruth's greatest joy was her family. She was fiercely proud of her children and delighted in watching her family grow through the generations. A woman of remarkable strength, determination, and work ethic, Ruth taught her children by example to work hard, persevere, and care for those they loved.
Her home was warm and welcoming, with an open door and always room for one more around the table. She found joy in the simple things — working in her yard, getting lost in a good book, listening to music, solving puzzles, and spending time with those she loved.
Ruth was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Clyde “Gene” Lyda; her parents; her siblings; her daughter, Cathi; her son, John; her grandsons, Michael Paul and Jack; and her great-grandson, Parker.
She is survived by her children, Cheri Roby (Ed), Cindi, Crisi Davidson (Jeremy), Christian (Keela), and Ann (Bryon Miller); 21 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandsons; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
Though her family will miss her deeply, her love, strength, and the lessons she shared will live on through the generations she leaves behind.
A viewing will be held Friday, Aug. 28, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Thompson Funeral Home in Powell, Wyoming. Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 29, at Rockvale Cemetery in Montana. A reception honoring Ruth's life will follow from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Elks Lodge in Billings, Montana.
