Ruth Ann Heims

Mrs. Ruth Ann Chancy Heims, age 88, a native Floridian departed this world to heaven on April 9, 2025. She was born in Belle Glade, Florida and was the last surviving child of ten born to her parents William Maurice Chancy and Erie Elizabeth Strength. Ruth survived her husband of 67 years, Norman Heims, by only 10 months. They had four children: Kurt Heims, Sandra Peterson (husband Lloyd), Vincent Heims, and Norma Campbell (husband Robert). Grandmother to 11 grandchildren: Jessica Land, Ruth McCracken, Trey Peterson, Seth Peterson, Zachary Peterson, Lee Peterson, Nathaniel Heims, Conner Heims, Madison Campbell, Brandon Campbell, and Arabella Campbell. Great-Grandmother to Jason, Levi, Sarah, Selah, Abel, Savannah, and Millie.
Ruth grew up in Belle Glade, Florida and was raised in a Christian home. Her interest in nursing was seen even in High School when she completed the Red Cross Home Nursing course in 1952. In 1955 she graduated from Belle Glade High School. She then obtained a diploma from Jones Business College in Orlando, Florida. While in Orlando, she met her husband Norman Heims. They married on August 25, 1958. They mainly lived in Florida: Maitland, Daytona, Naples, and then Lake City.
When asked about her past, she would say, "I was a good student and athlete, but was not a Christian even though I was a good person and grew up in a Christian home. I went to church almost every time the door was open, including tent revivals and had a lot of knowledge about the Bible. However, I did not have a heart knowledge. In 1971, while living in Naples, I was sitting in church listening to Pastor Freddie Smith. The Holy Spirit told me that this was the last time He was call me to be saved." She would say, "We can try to do good on our own, but it will only last for a while." Thankfully, she heeded the drawing to accept Jesus into her heart. She then began living for God and using her talents, i.e. sewing, teaching, hospitality, and caring for the glory of the Lord.
In 1985, Ruth continued her passion for Nursing by obtaining a diploma from the Collier County Vocational-Technical Center in Nursing. Afterwards, she enjoyed doing home health care in Naples, Florida.
In 1998, she and Norm settled in Lake City, Florida. She successfully battled breast cancer and lived the rest of her life in remission. She will always be remembered for her caring and loving spirit. She had a positive impact on everyone she knew. The family will have a graveside service. It is requested that in lieu of flowers, that donations be made to The Gideons International, www.gideons.org. Cremation arrangements are under the direction and care of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME.
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