Beyond the diamond and his towering home runs, Babe Ruth, the Sultan of Swat, cherished his family life. While his public persona was larger than life, at home, he was simply "Dad" to his two beloved daughters, Dorothy Helen Ruth and Julia Ruth Stevens. Their lives offered a unique glimpse into the private world of one of America's most iconic sports figures.
Meet the Ruth Daughters
Dorothy Helen Ruth was born in 1921. Though she was Babe's biological daughter from a relationship outside his first marriage, she was lovingly raised by Babe and his first wife, Helen Woodford. Dorothy didn't learn the truth about her biological mother until later in life, a revelation that undoubtedly shaped her understanding of her famous father. Throughout her life, Dorothy remained a dedicated steward of her father's legacy, often sharing personal anecdotes and memories that painted a more intimate portrait of the baseball legend. She passed away in 1989 at the age of 68, leaving behind a wealth of stories.
Julia Ruth Stevens, born in 1917, was the daughter of Babe’s second wife, Claire Merritt Hodgson, from a previous marriage. Babe officially adopted Julia in 1930, making her an integral part of the Ruth family. Julia fondly recalled traveling with her mother and Babe during his playing days, experiencing firsthand the whirlwind life of a baseball superstar. She often spoke about Babe's kindness, generosity, and his love for children, painting a picture of a man far removed from the boisterous public image. Julia lived an incredibly long and fulfilling life, passing away in 2019 at the remarkable age of 102, continuing to share her father's story and impact right up until her final years.
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