Ruth Elizabeth Wharton, of Port Orange, passed away on Sunday, July 20, at Halifax Hospital. She was 73. Born in Daytona Beach on March 28, 1941, Libby -- as she was affectionately known -- lived her life with gusto and independence. Her spirit of adventure, candid sense of humor, and remarkable intellect were trademarks of her unique and vibrant personality. Libby worked for many years as a proof-reader for the Daytona Beach News-Journal. She later worked for the Tampa Tribune.

Libby is survived by her son, Brian Wells of Port Orange; her daughter, Grace Wharton; her mother, Miriam Buschman; sister, Cathy Wharton; brother, Folger Wharton; her grand-daughter, Kailey Wells; her nephew, Larry Wharton; and niece, Ashleigh Lynch. She is predeceased by her brother, Lawrence Wharton, and her father, Redwood Wharton of Ponce Inlet.

A memorial service for Libby will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, July 31, at Lohman Funeral Home Daytona,1423 Bellevue Ave., Daytona Beach. Arrangements are under the careful direction of Lohman Funeral Home Daytona.