Ruth S. Ferrara

It was a week ago today I sang "In the Garden" to Ruth at her bedside. She responded with the sweetest smile, then with all of her strength she lifted her arm and gave me the most precious hug. I will hold that memory in my heart always.

I have been blessed to have had the privilege of working on Ruth's book, 'My Prayer Garden' with her. It brought her so much joy over the last year and a half. Just knowing that it touched the hearts of those who read it brightened her days. ...

omma,
you were the best grandma ever. you always made me smile, laugh, and feel loved. everytime i think about you, tears fill my eyes, selfishly i wish you were here still to call me your "hunny" but when i think about how much fun you are having up in heavan, talking and partying with Jesus, i can't help but smile. i wish i could be there with you, and see all the great things you are seeing. :) i miss you so much, i will always remember the times you were down here in north carolina...

Mom has always been a wonderful Christ like example of what a mother-in-law should be. She took me under her wing and taught me alot about how to be a better mother and wife. She was always patient and forgiving with me. I knew she was always praying for my family even when she had great needs for herself. I know this isn't the end, and I will see her in heaven someday, but until then I will miss her greatly.

For the little time that I knew Ruth, she has become a surrogate grandmother to me. I served her lunch at Pluta during her treatments and always remembered to grab her favorite treat - the craisens mix - without her having to remind me. Sitting next to her and talking about her family and my wedding plans is something I will always remember. She was a great and amazing woman!

As a child and an adult, the thing I will remember most about Ruth is her smile and the way her eyes shone when she smiled. I always thought the twinkle spoke of fun, love and possibly a bit of mischievousness. There was always something so comforting in talking to Ruth, no matter what the conversation consisted of. There are few people who leave as lasting an impression as did Ruth -thinking of her will make me smile.
Andy & family, you are in my prayers and thoughts. DeeDee