Ruth Patsy Lawrence

Ruth was born in Humboldt, Saskatchewan on January 7, 1927, to parents Vergie May (Kidd) and Albert Edward Gillings, later becoming older sister to Evelyn and Ted. She was a shy redhead with an amazing soprano voice. Singing was the one constant in Ruth’s life – competing in festivals as a young girl and sharing her amazing range (often hitting high A) at many gatherings and ceremonies, including the Dodsland United Church Choir, Dodsland Dinner Theatres, and later the Harris House Choir in Calgary. She declined a professional career in singing, opting instead to teach in many one-room school houses before marrying Edwin Hatton Lawrence on November 7, 1953. The two farmed in Dodsland, Saskatchewan, enduring all the hardships, but also enjoying the friendships and community spirit, that come with that life. They especially enjoyed playing cards with the neighbours often late into the night and always ending with coffee and dessert. Their daughter, Tara Lynne was born in January 1961. Ruth and Edwin retired to Calgary in 1993 to be closer to their daughter Tara, son-in-law Bernard Deschner, and grandsons Donovan (Tami) and Tyler.

She will be missed by her family including her nieces and nephews: Doug (Diane), Jim (Colleen), Patti (Brian), and Dawn (Joe). She is predeceased by her loving husband of 59 years, Ed, her siblings Evelyn and Ted, and her niece Val (Kim). Many friends, neighbours and TOPS members share great memories of a very kind and caring woman. Ruth’s dog, Pride, will also miss the multiple treats and the ear scratches.

Ruth suffered with Alzheimer’s disease for the last several years of her life, but never lost her sense of humour. We hope she realized how talented she was—sewing, crocheting, painting, gardening, crafting, and especially singing.

Ruth’s final “Arts & Crafts Show” will be held at South Calgary Funeral Centre, 12700 Macleod Trail South (at Lake Fraser Gate), on Saturday, March 18, 2023 at 1:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Ruth’s name to the Veteran’s Association Food Bank of Calgary, #10, 820 – 28 Street NE, T2A 6K1.