She had been on my mind that morning, and then I received the call in the midst of preparing for the next edition.
One of our most loyal readers, and an ardent cheerleader of mine, had passed on.
Ruth Noyes contributed several letters to the editor over the years, frequently serving as an advocate for her friends and neighbors, but most often finding ways to celebrate her community.
She would arrange for deliveries to show her appreciation to various people that she had encountered while navigating life in her adopted small town.
Whether that included silly glasses & coffee mugs, fuzzy warm socks in lots of colors, or simply notes expressing gratitude – these small gifts had a big impact, making recipients feel both seen and valued.
Ruth was special, and she wanted everyone around her to feel that specialness in themselves
I will miss her phone calls, and I regret that life got in the way of our finally sharing a meal together.
Yet, as my day ended with a beautiful sunset on the same porch where I had received the sad news, my only thought for Ruth was, “I’m so glad you were here.”
Would that we all pass through this life in such a way, to leave that gift for the people we know.
Thank you, Ruth.
It was a privilege.
