Ruth Young Mann

MANN, Ruth Young, born December 17, 1920 in Washington D.C. died on Tuesday, October 28, 2014. Ruth is preceded in death by her parents, Dottie (Ruth Elizabeth) and Robert Young; and siblings, Robert, Birdie (Roberta), and Harry Young. She stands today with her beloved husband, Glenn Mann, in the presence of the Lord. She leaves behind her daughters, Judy and Betsy; sons, Jeff and Tim; six grandchildren; two great grandchildren. Ruth was an energetic soul with the voice of an angel. In her youth she was a member of the school gymnastic team and sang in the Youth Choir at the Christian Church in D.C. This youth choir performed at the New York World’s Fair in 1939 and at Radio City Music Hall where they made a record featuring Ruthie. On December 21, 1942 Ruth married her childhood sweetheart Glenn which began her new life as the wife of an Army Aircorps Airman through World War II, and as the wife of a career US Air Force Chaplain. For most of her life she was the Base Chaplains wife, serving US Airmen and women and their families in Europe, Asia, and throughout the US. During this time Ruth served her Savior and the country through church choirs, hostess to special events, and as a Sunday school teacher. Some of her most fond memories were serving and singing in the “Skylarks” at Keesler AFB. When Glenn retired from the USAF, he merely moved from serving God through the Air Force to serving as the Senior pastor at First Christian Churches in Valdosta, Ga. and Brandon, Fla. Ruth accepted her husband’s calling and continued her life of service with him. She sang in the church choir, served in Vacation Bible School, baked cookies and cakes for the bake sales, crocheted ornaments for the church bazaar, and was a regular volunteer for “Meals on Wheels”. Perhaps her greatest gift was the way she shared her joy for life. Ruth was the kind of mother every child should have as they grow up. She loved her children. She taught her children and grandchildren nearly every happy song from the 1920’s through the 1960’s. She could be found playing jacks on the kitchen floor, Ping Pong in the garage, boxed games and cards, coloring at the kitchen table, and body surfing. As a septuagenarian, she even tried her hand at skate boarding. One of her granddaughter’s most vivid memory is of Ruth, at 80 years old, standing on her head, just to show the grandchildren how to do it. There was never a dull moment when Ruth was nearby. As the children grew up and left home Ruth used her abundant energy in her yard, tending the bushes and flower, feeding the bird and squirrels. It was often said of Ruth, “she never met a stranger.” Conversation came easily to her. She didn’t have to know your name to enjoy hearing about your day. Ruth lived a good life, the kind of life that leaves its’ mark. She will be cremated and placed next to her husband Glenn in Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, Fla. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that you please send all contributions to Brandon Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Brandon, Fla. in Ruth’s name.