Ruth Eileen Stanford

Celebrating the Life of Ruth Eileen Stanford, born September 10th, 1930, in Winnetka, Illinois, the fifth of five children to Irish immigrant, Ada Evelyn and Joseph Andrew Gingles. Ruth attended Glenview High School in Illinois and earned her high school diploma, after which she became a telephone operator, and later worked as a bartender. She met and married her first love, Aubrey Hess, in 1950, and had two beautiful daughters, Susan and Pam. As her husband was in the military, Ruth and her family relocated to Lemon Grove, California in 1961. Ruth later divorced and remarried, Dean Shirkey having her third wonderful daughter, Deana. Ruth was an independent, honest, compassionate, and caring woman. Sadly, Ruth lost her daughter Susan at the age of 22, which proved to be an incredibly difficult struggle for her. Ruth was tough and sharp as a tack. She was a strong, 5'2", Protestant woman who deeply loved her family, friends, and her Irish heritage. Ruth also loved animals and contributed to the San Diego Humane Society. She was a proud member of the VFW, serving as the chaplain for many years, and enjoyed hanging out at the VFW with her dear friends. Ruth spent the past 35 years with her longtime companion Bill Davis, until his unfortunate passing in January 2021, another difficult trial for her. Ruth was a generous, loving, and patriotic woman who enjoyed listening and dancing to 50's and 60's music, playing pool, cards, and games. In January 2023, Ruth fell ill with the flu and unfortunately, was never able to regain her strength. After a month of medical rehabilitation, she came home to her daughter's home and passed away four days later, surrounded by her loved ones. She lived a very long, happy, and healthy life. Ruth is survived by her children: Pam & Kelly Brown and Deana Curiel, grandchildren: Michael & Amy Brown and Alyssa & Megan Curiel, and great-grandchildren: Owen Richards and Lucy Brown. She will be loved and remembered by her family and friends.