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Ruth Gilliland Obituary
Throughout their marriage, Ruth and Russ would have a total of 2 sons (Robert and Mike) and two daughters (Grace and Lisa). Ruth was known for enjoying the outdoors, and loved any type of physical activity. In addition to riding horses, she could also be found spending time on the family boat, traveling, and reading.
Ruth always had a kind word for her friends and fellow community members, and she could often be found inviting parents of the children to rode horses at Gilliland Ranch to stay after class and chat on her front porch. While she won many riding competitions, and was awarded for her contributions to the community, she would always say her greatest accomplishments were in her children and grandchildren. In 2007 Ruth lost a 6 year battle with breast cancer. She is survived by her loving husband Russ, her children, and 6 grand children.
Memorials may be made to Gilliland Farms, Charlotte, NC.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ruth Gilliland
January 17, 2013
January 17, 2013
Lisa Mills
January 17, 2013
Mom encouraged me every day in everything I took on, but she was so proud of me when I was riding. This picture is before my very first national event and though I didn't win it all that day (in fact, quite the opposite!), her encouragement made pick myself up, dust myself off, and work my way to several large successes.
I am missing her today.
January 17, 2013
Mom, Dad, and Charlie.
January 17, 2013
January 17, 2013
Russ Gilliland
October 27, 2012
My love, always and forever.
Grace Ross
July 9, 2012
Happy Birthday Mom
Love Grace
Greg Thomas
July 1, 2012
Dearest Ruth
This spring has been beautiful!
I wish you were here to share it but I am confident that the beauty here on earth is nothing compared to what you are experiencing where you are now.
Patty and Mike Kirkland
June 29, 2012
To Russ, Robert, Mike, Grace and Lisa,
We were so sad to hear of Ruth's passing. Not only was she an excellent trainer, she was an outstanding member of our community. Because of Ruth, our children developed a love of horses and nature. They have since competed in many equestrain competitions and our oldest daughter just bought her first horse, named Ruth after her favorite teacher. Please accept our deepest sympathies and know you are in our thoughts during this difficult time.
The Nielsen Family
June 29, 2012
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time.
Joseph Cramer
June 29, 2007
My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
June 29, 2012
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2006
Jason Curtis
June 29, 2012
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Ann Baker
June 29, 2012
Ruth was an inspiration to all women who suffer from breast cancer. While I am thankful to be a survivor, there are so many whom this disease still affects. She was very courageous in her struggle, and I send my deepest condolences to the family.
The Gordon Family
June 29, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Michael Lawson
June 29, 2012
I have brought both of my daughters to Gilliland Ranch as children to learn horse back riding from Ruth Gilliland. She was such an inspiration to my children!! My deepest sympathies to the entire family.
Mary Taubman
June 29, 2012
To the Gilliland Family,
I am so sorry to hear of Ruth's passing. She was always such a lively and vivacious spirit, and loved every minute of life. Please accept my sincerest condolences.
Mary
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