Ruth P. Stack

Ruth Stack, nee Patterson , passed away February 8, 2013, after a brief illness. Born in Springfield, MA in 1926, Ruth was preceded in death by her parents Harold and Beatrice Patterson, sister Gertrude, and brothers Harold, David and James “Allen” Patterson, as well as her beloved husband of 60 years, Louis. She is survived by her 4 daughters; Joan Stack of Columbus, OH, Christine Bell (Paul) of Jacksonville,  Valerie Dodge (Paul) of Morris Plains, NJ and Mary Dunn (Robert) of Milford, CT, as well as grandchildren; Alex and Callan Bell, and Ryan, Olivia, and Matthew Dunn.   Ruth joined the Cadette Nurse Corps program during WWII and earned her Registered Nurse license after graduating from the Springfield Hospital School of Nursing in 1948. A born nurturer, Ruth continued to serve as an RN for the next 51 years.  Ruth was recognized for her service in 1997, at the dedication of the Women in Military Service for America Memorial in Washington, DC.   Family and community were important to Ruth.  She served as a Girl Scout troop leader for many years, and was a multi-gallon blood donor.  An avid walker, she logged countless miles for various charity fundraisers. Ruth loved entertaining, and was a gifted cook and baker, who never met a recipe she didn’t want to try. In lieu of flowers, please consider one of Ruth’s favorite charities, either the American Red Cross, or the Jacksonville Humane Society. Visitation will be held Tuesday, Feb 12 from 9:30-11:30 am, and 1-2 pm, with a Memorial Service starting at 2pm at the funeral home. A reception will follow. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin, 11801 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32223. www.hgmandarin.com (904) 288-0025.