 Ruth is portrayed as a practical, competent woman, a loving wife and mother, and an active community member.In 1957, Cloris Leachman joined the cast as Ruth but eventually her feuds with co-stars, her unwillingness to sign a contract, and other troubles forced show producer Jack Wrather to fire her at the close of the season's filming.June Lockhart replaced her at the top of the 1958 season and remained in the role until her character was retired in the first episode of the 1964 season.