Ruth Elaine Besse, age 90, passed away Thursday, August 30, 2018 in Huntsville, AL. Ruth was born in Gulfport, MS., The daughter of Horace and Annie Lee (Bufkin) Dear, born September 28, 1927. She lived on the Mississippi Gulf Coast until moving to Tampa, FL in 1967 where she lived for 50 years until moving to Huntsville, AL in 2017. She was married to William "Bill" Pittman from 1941 until 1966 and later married Raoul Besse Jr. in 1970 until his death in 2010. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and siblings. She is survived by her daughter, Cindy (Nelson) Hensley of Huntsville, AL; sons, Richard Pittman of Louisville, KY, Randy Pittman of New Port Richey, FL; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and her beloved Princess Fergie. Ruth was a true Southern Belle who loved her family and many friends. She will be sadly missed, but always loved. Funeral services will be provided by Valhalla Funeral Home in Huntsville, AL. A graveside service will be held at 11am on Monday, September 17, 2018 at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens. Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home, Howard Avenue in Biloxi is assisting the family.