Born Ruchel Dwajra Zylska in Poland in 1921, she is James's mother, whose life story includes immigrating to the United States, enduring family trauma, and embracing her Christian faith while raising twelve children.

Ruth's father, an Orthodox Jewish rabbi known as Fishel Shilsky, who moves his family around the Northeast and eventually settles in Suffolk, Virginia, where he is depicted as tyrannical and racist.

Ruth's mother, Hudis Shilsky, a gentle presence in the family who suffers from physical ailments and is unable to counter her husband's abusive behavior, offering her daughter quiet support.

Ruth's first husband and James's father, a kind-hearted man with whom Ruth establishes a church, passing away in 1957 due to lung cancer before James's birth.

Ruth's second husband, deeply loved by James, and the father of four of Ruth's children, who worked hard to provide for the family before his death in 1972.

The twelve children of Ruth, including James; notable for their academic achievements, with many earning degrees from prestigious institutions.