Who is Ruth Courtney from A Sparrow Falls and what is their importance?

Ruth Courtney is the wife of General Sean Courtney, Ruth is one of Natal's first ladies. A renowned beauty, though well past forty, she has a shrewd eye and is fiercely protective of Sean. Still slim and lovely, she has no trouble arousing her husband with ease, although her body is no longer able to produce children - let alone a son like Sean so badly wanted. Quick and strong in mind and body, she has small, pointed breasts and long shapely legs.