TRAVERSE CITY — Ruth Ann Burton, 65, a lifelong resident of Traverse City, passed away Monday, May 30, 2011, at Birchwood Nursing Home, after a two-year battle with cancer.Ruth Ann was born March 11, 1946, to the late Gordon and Hattie (Dickinson) Lewis in Traverse City. After a chance encounter at a wedding, where Ruth was maid of honor, and Terry, her future husband, was working as photographer, the two were engaged. Ruth entered into marriage with Terry Burton on May 11, 1968.The two settled in Traverse City, making their home and adding to their family with the birth of their son and daughter. In 1989, they moved to a new home near Long Lake, that helped to further establish Terry Burton Photography. Ruth worked right alongside her husband, gaining a skillful eye for photography, and even picked up the camera to help out at many shoots.Ruth, along with her husband, was a member of the Photographers Society of Michigan. She was a proud member of Asbury (Traverse Bay) Methodist Church. Ruth could often be found gardening, or photographing flowers and landscapes. She loved to spend time with her granddaughter, Meaghan, and baking.Ruth is survived by her loving husband of 43 years, Terry Burton, of Traverse City; their children, Jeff Burton and Jill Burton; and granddaughter, Meaghan, all of Traverse City; one brother, Gerald (Mary) Lewis, of Manistee; her nephew, Jason (Julie) Lewis, and their daughter, Stephanie; as well as many other loving family members and friends.Ruth was preceded in death by her parents.Memorial services will take place at 3 p.m. Saturday, June 4, at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, with visitation one hour prior to the service.Memorial contributions may be directed to Munson Hospice at Munson Healthcare Regional Foundation, 210 Beaumont Place, Traverse City, MI 49684.Please share thoughts with the family at Ruth's online guestbook at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.The family is being served by Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.