New London, CT, Connecticut
New London - Dr. Ruby (Turner) Morris, 103, of New London, died peacefully on Saturday, June 18, 2011, at Bride Brook in East Lyme, where she had been a patient.
She was born April 28, 1908, in Pepperill, Mass., the daughter of George F. and Martha (Sibley) Turner.
Dr. Morris was educated at Stanford University and Vassar College and had a distinguished career at Connecticut College. She was the retired chairman of the department of economics and urban affairs and was also the Lucretia L. Allyn Professor Emeritus of Economics.
She was a proud Democrat and a member of the New London Democratic Town Committee, was elected and served numerous terms on the city council, and many other boards and agencies over the years. She was elected the first woman mayor of the City of New London in 1974. She had a particular passion for issues concerning seniors, the environment, and transportation.
Ruby loved the City of New London and the area and often commented on how lucky we were to be here to enjoy it. She especially valued her time spent on the beach, swimming, and sailing her "vessel."
She is survived by two nephews.
A memorial celebration of Ruby's life will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 23, 2011, at All Souls Unitarian Church in New London with a reception to follow. There are no calling hours. Her ashes will be scattered along the beachfront privately.
Byles Memorial Home, 99 Huntington St., New London, is assisting with arrangements.
Please omit flowers and at her request make donations to the 7th Regiment Drum & Bugle Corps, PO Box 64, New London CT 06320.
Please visit www.Byles.com for obituaries, directions, or to sign the guestbook with a note of remembrance.
Ruby was my grandfathers cousin and had a camp house across the lake from him. She had a very bright outlook on the world. She was an liberated woman even before the woman's movement of the 60's. We will miss her.
Chris White
June 26, 2011 | Orange Park, FL
Professor Morris taught economics to thousands of us at Connecticut College. A favorite lecture involved coin shaped pieces of chocolate covered in gold foil to teach us the value of money. We will remember her for her wisdom and wit and wardrobe.
David Clark CC Class of 1973
David Clark
June 24, 2011 | New London, CT
I will always remember and admire Ruby's active lifestyle. She was my grandfather's first cousin. She was a free spirit and will be missed. Thanks for all the fun times at the lake in Lunenburg, Ma.
Steven Boyle
June 23, 2011 | Palm Bay, FL
Ruby was my father's first cousin. We were truly proud as a family to know and love her. She was a real free spirit.
Patricria White
June 23, 2011 | Morehead City, NC
May she rest in peace... she was a great human being and mentor to most that became involved in New London politics
Bill Satti
June 22, 2011 | New London, CT
I remember her well. A fine lady. Ruby wrote a song for my mom and dad she sang a t a testimonial for my dad. Bob Janovic
Bob Janovic
June 22, 2011 | Shallotte, NC
