Ruth Ellen Pestle

Ruth was our wonderful neighbor in Woodgate in Tallahassee for many years. She taught us how to be better neighbors. We were so fortunate to visit her multiple times at her historic home in Waitsfield, Vermont. She was a kind, generous soul and we are grateful for her many years of friendship. Cathy and Tom Bishop

Dr. Ruth Pestle served as a Professor of Home Economics Education from 1976 until her retirement in 1995. She received the B.S. from the University of Vermont (1954), and the M.S. and Ph.D. from Cornell University (1960, 1964,respectively). She was a prolific scholar, writing on topics that are relevant even today, including aging (independent living skills, hypothermia), the environment (conservation, voluntary simplicity), and changing family lifestyles. Due to her interests in graduate...

Dr. Pestle was my major professor when I worked on a master's degree in home economics education at FSU. She was a guiding force during my graduate studies as I completed coursework and defended my thesis in 1983. I have always appreciated her mentoring, advice and wisdom. It has carried me through a career as an educator.

Vermont. She will be missed by many.

Ruth was my UVM classmate In the 1950's and we later connected along with our other classmates, Nancy Hitchcock and Carolyn Stone to form "We 4", which began many years of meeting together for lunch and reminiscing. She always met ,carrying pies and other creations from her kitchen. I marveled at her concern and care for others in her home town of Waitsfield and beyond. I will miss her frequent phone calls and her cheerful attitude. She added a great deal of joy to my life. Pat Diego

My husband, Leo and I met working for Dr. Pestle as graduate students at Florida State. She taught us a lot about research and was ahead of her time focusing on voluntary simplicity and improving the health and wellbeing of the elderly. We kept in touch over the years Including when she returned to her home in Vermont. Leo and I visited her in Waitsfield and had a great time including a tour of her family home. Ruth was a wonderful advocate for her students and we learned from her...

Ruth was a vital part of our town of Waitsfield. She knew everyone and was always ready to help in every way. She was a wonderful person and will be missed. Sandra Reilly

I am so sorry for your loss. Ruth was a neighbor in Woodgate in Tallahassee as well as my husband's colleague at FSU. I always enjoyed chatting with her and seeing her on her walks; she often mentioned John's visits. As she prepared for her move back home (I was her realtor), I was able to visit with her more. I always enjoyed her annual holiday news and will miss them. Thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Nancy & Ike Eberstein