Ruth Anne Dietz Patterson

Ruth Anne Dietz Patterson, of the 5900 block of Timbercrest, passed away Saturday, Dec. 1, 2001, after a long illness.

Memorial service: 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 16, at Moore Funeral Home, Bowen Chapel, 4216 S. Bowen Road, Arlington.

Mrs. Patterson was born in Trenton, N.J., the daughter of Franklin and Wilma Dietz. She was an active member of the Christian Science Church in Arlington and served as a chaplain with Dallas County Jails and Correctional Facilities. She was also a member of the International Federation of University Women.

A science teacher, Ruth graduated magna cum laude from Davis and Elkins College in Elkins, W. Va., with bachelor of science degrees in chemistry, biology and math. She started her career at the Rocketdyne Division of North American Aviation as a fuel chemist, working in rocket propulsion research. She later earned a certification in elementary education from Texas Christian University, carrying a 4.0 GPA. While her teaching career was mainly focused on science, she also shared her gifts with troubled and handicapped students. Ruth will be remembered as a wonderful mother, teacher and friend to countless people. She touched many with her positive influence and giving spirit.

Survivors: Her children, Teresa Patterson of Fort Worth, Dan Patterson of Oak Harbor, Wash., Troy Patterson of Arlington and Wende Patterson of Arlington; grandson, Christian Patterson of Oak Harbor, Wash.; and brothers, Franklin Dietz of Marietta, Ga., and Rowan Dietz of Colorado.