Ruth Powers is the Simpsons’ next-door neighbor, introduced when she moves to their neighborhood in the episode "New Kid on the Block".
Family
She is divorced and has a daughter, Laura Powers, who no longer lives with her. She has said her husband acts similar to Homer, as revealed in Marge on the Lam, and he was continually stiffing Ruth in child support, which caused the divorce, and for revenge, she stole his car.
Role in The Simpsons
Minor Appearances
She is usually seen as a background character, sometimes in events that occurred even before she moved next door (such as the baby shower for Maggie in "And Maggie Makes Three"). She even continues to be a background character despite her later imprisonment.
Major Appearances
The episode "Marge on the Lam" features Ruth and Marge going on the run from the law in a stolen convertible, a parody of Thelma & Louise. Ruth makes a special appearance in the episode "Strong Arms of the Ma", advising Marge (who is taking up weightlifting) to use steroids.
Episode appearances
Negative Qualities
Jail Time
As a result of what happened in Marge on the Lam, she was sent to prison. Even though she has been in prison, she still makes minor background appearances. She also has claimed to be "Miss Mexican Mafia" in her time in prison.
Alcholism
She is often seen as one of the only female patrons at Moe's Tavern and is seen at Alcoholics Anonymous meetings throughout the series.
Drugs
In Strong Arms of the Ma, she explains that during her time in prison, she took up steroids and became very muscular, and even told Marge to take up steroids. In Marge on the Lam she is seen smoking in almost every scene.