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Ruth McGinnis Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Ruth McGinnis
Nancy Roth
November 2, 2024
Sometimes I feel a calling to come "visit" Ruth. I cherish the days and years we had together as music students. I miss you, dear friend.
Carolyn Gray
September 21, 2014
I was sad to learn of Ruth's passing. I first saw her play at Colorado mills in Lakewood, Colorado. She was giving away one of her music CD's. I listened to her CD and fell in love with her music. I bought another of her CD's from her website and two of her books. The world lost one of the really beautiful artists and human beings. I will miss her from here in Colorado.
Kelley Kimble
May 10, 2013
I so enjoyed Ruth's work on Gary Chapman's "Hymns From The Ryman," a long-misplaced album I had on cassette. The music was on my mind lately, and I found a CD through Amazon. I received it yesterday and popped it right into the player. Hearing that beautiful violin again I searched Google, only to learn that she had passed. I'm so glad she left this beautiful music for us to enjoy until we join her in that great crowd.
Michael TenBrink
April 17, 2013
I never met Ruth, but I knew of her initially because of her work with Amy Grant. From there, I bought her wonderful books and found her to be such a refreshing voice of health. I have several of her CDs and still listen to them regularly, always with a bit of a lump in my throat. I hope that those who loved Ruth have found peace in the years since her passing, and that they find comfort in knowing she made an impact and is missed.
Susan Weber Maurer
November 24, 2012
I still think of Ruth every day. I play her music at home and in my office, and I am constantly reminded of how beautiful a person and how gifted a musician she was, and what a privilege it was to know her and to play music with her.
My Army Son
Steven Sheley
November 23, 2012
I Was putting together a goodbye video for my Army Reserve son going overseas and needed some hauntingly beautiful music to use as background. I found The Kiss in my Itunes library from a CD i had forgotten about. Thank you Ruth and i am now re listening to all your music.
Joyce Leigh
July 26, 2012
I never met Ruth but know of her through John's brother, Peter. I received her book and have read and enjoyed it many times. I know what it's like to lose a sibling and when I think of her I pray for John and her family to feel love and peace in the memories of their beautiful Ruth.
Michael Ferril
March 30, 2012
I see these photos and my heart almost stops..My friend from Csun and Juilliard so full of life!! Heaven is lucky to have You now Ruth,Love mike
Ruth's sister, Rachel Kirby
October 6, 2011
Thank you to those who have kept this online, ongoing. This is now two years without my sister. Very hard, still, to comprehend. I got up unwillingly before dawn this morning, but was thankful for the bright constellations and, a little later, the spectacular sunrise here in Colorado. Thought of Ruth all the while.
Ruth & Steve, Charlies Corner, Secaucus NJ, 1984
Steve Petrella
February 11, 2011
Sorry it took me so long to search for Ruth... 27 years. My heart was in the right place... but just a little too late. We only worked together for a very short time, but I've never forgotten.
Edward Earl McCartney
December 1, 2010
Like most, I was unaware that Ruth had gone to play for our Father in Heavan. I came across her passing by accident but like most, I was touched by her never ending kindness. We were very fortunate to have known her and her talents, "play on Ruth as you will always draw a crowd no matter where you perform". She was definitly a classic performer as well as a classic lady in life.
Tasha Castor
October 6, 2010
One year later, I still feel the profound loss. I miss Ruth, her music, and her gentle words more than ever. To Ruth's family... I wish peace and comfort for you today. Please know that she will never be forgotten.
Harry Whitworth
September 22, 2010
My wife, Carol and I met this beautiful lady while on our Honeymoon in Pennsylvania. She was playing in at a mall there, and my wife and I were enthralled by her music. I just pulled out a CD tonight to play, it was her "Songs for a Good Life". and it was one that she autographed for us back in 2001. I had not played it since that time, and just listening to it tonight brings back the memories of that day we met her. She was so loving, and gracious We only knew her for a very brief time of her pilgramage here with us on earth, and looking back it was a special time, one which I will never forget. I came to this site by accident, but I do not believe in accidents. I believe in God's providence, and I know that meeting her that day was something He wanted us to experience. As I re-experience that tonight, I feel like I am back nine years ago, and wish Carol, Ruth and I could go back there again. Hopefully some day we will meet again, and hopefully that will be in heaven where I can here her beautiful music again. Ruth, my hope is that God is holding you in His everlasting arms right now.
Barbara Fisher
May 27, 2010
It was a privilege to have listened to
Ruth play. I feel very honored and will
always remember her.
Indeed, a true and memorable artist.
Tasha Castor
May 21, 2010
Missing Ruth more than usual, I try to remember the things she told me when she was here with us. Today I remembered her statement about "life unfolding in ways we choose and ways we do not..." and how true that feels for me. I am so grateful to have known her and have words that I can hold when I miss her most. Thinking of all of you who are still grieving in your own unique ways... take much care.
April 25, 2010
wow.......... hey John , its Brian from the Hilton (driver ). Well , i just wanted to once again say how sorry i am for you and your family. Your wife Ruth is beautiful as is her music . She seems like a really special person and she will always be with you my friend . Sincerely , Brian Marquet
Brian Marquet
April 25, 2010
wow.......... hey John , its Brian from the Hilton (driver ). Well , i just wanted to once again say how sorry i am for you and your family. Your wife Ruth is beautiful as is her music . She seems like a really special person and she will always be with you my friend . Sincerely , Brian Marquet
Susan Weber
April 17, 2010
I play Ruth's music every day, and she is always present with me. Her beauty and soul still graces this world and I'm so grateful to have known her and worked with her.
Rachel Kirby
April 15, 2010
Thank you to Jason and Nanette for keeping the guestbook online.
It's not over. The mourning continues on a daily basis. Ruth delighted in the coming of Spring every year, and I am constantly reminded of her as I see our daffodils and tulips cautiously poke forth here in Colorado. My strength through Ruth is: the determination to appreciate the beauty I am seeing around me, rather than regretting that she is not physically here to share it with us. Ruth is here, Ruth is now, Ruth still delighting in God's Creation, in all its manifestations.
Rachel Kirby, Ruth's sister
February 26, 2010
I was always so intrigued by Ruth's music . I remember I saw her on a spiritual show on TV and I have never seen a performer that moved me as she did. I am playing Breathing Freely now and got on line to find out more and saw of her passing . I am so sorry. She will be remembered forever
Sincerely Sylvia Gillespie
Gordon Hirt
February 20, 2010
It had been a quite while since I said "Hi" to Ruth and now I am so very, very saddened to find that the last time will forever be the last time. I met Ruth when she was testing the country music waters with Dave and Sheri in the NY area at a small place near Fishkill. I can still remember her accelerating to the end of the Orange Blossom Special with her hair flying and more than a few hairs broken on her bow. Just as sweet as could be and bursting with a talent always bigger that the little venues she played, she always left the crowd in awe at the end of every set. I so enjoyed her company and being in her circle of friends until she made her transition to Nashville. She was such a positive person and my heart is broken for her and her family.
John, we never met but, knowing Ruth, you must have been someone extraordinarily special to have caught her heart. My wife of 24 years is a 10 year cancer survivor and the memory of Ruth will always remind me how close we came to losing Nancy and how appreciative we should be for every single "one more day" my sons and I get to have her in our lives. In Tribute to Ruth, and in the memory of every other Special Someone forever lost to friends and family, I promise to love my wife as much as I can every single day because I can only imagine what anyone who lost a true love would give to have "just one more day" with that special someone if there were no more days. Please accept my deepest sympathies for your loss.
Lori Rankin-Patterson
February 4, 2010
I just found out about Ruth's passing today and want to express my deep sorrow to her family. I went to school at Granada Hill High with Ruth and her sisters. As a younger violinist in the school orchestra, I always looked up to her for her wonderful talent. A few years ago I discovered her website and e-mailed her and she graciously answered and updated me on the family news. I bought a couple of her CDs and have thoroughly enjoyed them. I also lost my oldest sister to cancer nearly 2 years ago now (Jeanne was also a violinist at GHHS) and can certainly empathize with the pain of losing a sister, but I take comfort in knowing that she is in heaven with Jesus. May Ruth's sisters and parents feel the Lord's loving arms comforting them as they draw close to Him.
Janice Sutton
January 2, 2010
The Christmas decoration John created at their home was such a beautiful tribute to Ruth, and such a gift to us all who so admired her and miss her. It was 'so' Ruth, all warmth and welcoming. Thank you, John.
Tribute to Ruth McGinnis - Dec 12, 2009
Dan & Deena Russell
December 13, 2009
We were honored to attend the Musical Tribute in Ruth's honor tonight at Davis Kidd bookstore. What a sweet, sweet evening. Thank you to her beloved Trio + 1, Erin, Amy, John & others for letting us join with you in remembering Ruth and her incredible talent. We are better because we shared in her life & in her music.
Stacy Jagger
December 11, 2009
Ruth was an amazing inspiration to me as a person. There was a sense about her, a calmness, that I could not figure out. Her music and books comforted me. Her philosophy of life and wellness seemed so simple, yet achievable. Her seminars were amazing, professional and profound. Her way of life reminds me of my grandmother's; simple, serene and full of beauty. Thank you Ruth. You are missed.
Wayne Huber
December 5, 2009
Cousin Ruth celebrated with our family on joyous occasions and comforted and encouraged us during times of grief. My sister Carol and I will always remember her exquisite violin and loving support during our father’s last years, and during his and our mother’s celebration of life. While our father, Hubert Huber, was in a nursing home in Hamilton, Montana, Ruth came out to see him and play for him. She enjoyed telling the story of playing for our Dad in his room, and after a while, hearing a voice down the hall say “that’ll be enough of that violin!”
Ruth’s music touched me like none other's. Her playing could and almost always did make me cry, not from sadness but from the pure joy and passion of her music. Her heart was in it. On an even more personal note, twice she contributed directly to my closure of grief and anticipation of the future. She played “Amazing Grace” with her unique talent to conclude my wife’s celebration of life in 2005. A year later, at our mother’s, Lois’, 90th birthday celebration in Hamilton, she encouraged me to “move on,” advice I accepted to my great current happiness.
Ruth was beautiful, fun, intelligent, lively, warm, loving, and of course, incredibly talented at more than just her music. Her sense of family echoed her McGinnis and Huber heritage. Her spirituality was evident but never obtrusive. I miss her this December and always, but it is with joy that I remember her and all her gifts to us.
Tasha Castor
November 14, 2009
Every day, I am reminded of the countless ways and words Ruth poured into me. Amidst the intense grief, I am trying to find the joy, as I know she would encourage me to do. She was the first person to show me what life could be like, and to have been mentored and loved by such an incredible woman is humbling. I will forever be grateful. Her music carries me in the hard times. I remember tea at Bronte, weeding the garden, early lunch at Provence, Jojo, countless music dates, and most of all, walking Radnor Lake. I miss you so much, Ruth. To John, Ruth's parents, Ruth's sisters, as well as her cousin and other extended family and friends, my thoughts are with you daily. Peace to all...
Jim Polk
November 11, 2009
Friday nights at Davis-Kidd with Ruth and her friends have for several years been islands of profound healing and holiness in my life.
Her incomparable and unconquerable passion for the good life in all its abundance has brought hope, wholeness, and happiness to me personally, and to dozens of my kin and friends.
The nights Ruth played I always tried to bring friends along, and I have a hard time believing that this Friday night blessing will come again only in our memories and on the other side of this life.
In the midst of a world that all too often seems to teeter over a precipice above cynicism and despair, Ruth's love and compassion touched and connected with the core of many.
She brought us home to the very best of that is tucked away within us, then lifted us up toward all we are called to be. I know this to be true, I am one who has been so moved.
May the spirit of holiness surround and restore you whose lives Ruth touched most closely. Love flowing into the world out of your memory of her will be her legacy and her unquenchable joy.
God be with you... til we meet on that beautiful shore.
Rachel Kirby
November 7, 2009
This morning I was out early at the soccer fields with my twins. A beautiful and unusually mild morning for November in Colorado. As I looked at the western horizon, mountains looming and clouds gracing the sky, I thought only of Ruth and how much she loved this earth and this life.
Thank you to all who have left a message in her honor. I am particularly grateful to those who knew her back in the 70s when I was just a kid. I remember you Doug, Vicky, Nancy, Cindy, and others! so well.
Ruth's sister Rachel,
in ongoing grief,
yet embracing life as she asked me to
Rachel McGinnis Kirby
November 4, 2009
Dear Family of Ruth,
I am so saddened for your loss. I recently contacted her in July to tell her how much she made a difference in my life. She gave me the gift of music when I was a shy, insecure teen 37 years ago. I loved her kind and gentle ways. What a beautiful person inside and out. She took the time to write me back and again gave me encouragement. I was thrilled to hear from her. I know she is playing her beautiful music in heaven. Every time I play, I will play in her memory.
Judy Barlow Peffers Fountain Valley, CA
Mary Clarke
November 1, 2009
To Ruth's beloved family .. how my heart aches for your loss even as I rejoice for Ruth's entrance into His presence .. May the love of family and a steadfast faith hold you gently through this difficult time .. and may the peace and joy she knows today slowly begin to settle around your hearts ... I only 'met' Ruth through her music and books, yet she touched my life deeply and helped me search deeper into myself to live my life more fully and freer of the baggage we all collect on our journey here .. I picture her playing her fiddle amdist the amazing beauty of all God has in store for us in heaven as I thank Him for the gift she was to so many on her journey here. Godspeed, Ruth. My prayers are with you all!
Carrie Crowl Almond
October 27, 2009
Dear John, Frank, Freddie Lu, Julie, Laura, Rachel and Erin,
I am so sad to hear about Ruth's passing. My dad called to let me know and it is with a heavy heart that I sign this guestbook. I have so many fond memories of growing up across the street from The McGinnis family and it doesn't seem right that Ruth is now gone from this earthly life. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you, but we do rejoice in the legacy that Ruth left and in the fact that she knew and loved her Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ and is with Him now!!! May you find HIS peace in this difficult time. My prayers are with all of you.
Susan Weber Maurer
October 24, 2009
My deepest sympathy to Ruth's family and friends. I had the privilege of knowing Ruth and playing music with her for several years when she lived in New York. Music flowed through her so naturally and easily that she seemed almost to dissolve and to become the music itself. I am profoundly grateful to have the CDs that she recorded and which have become so very precious to me now. Ruth was the very embodiment of Love, and Love is what she shared, and continues to share, in her music. This world is a better place for having been blessed with Ruth's presence and the gift of her music which she shared so generously with us all.
Laura Robinson
October 22, 2009
It is with a heavy heart that I write this, and apologize it took so long to add an entry. Up until now, I have had difficulty writing something.
I feel honored to have met Ruth, and heard her play and perform. Ruth spoke and performed for me in April 2009 at the Minnie Pearl Cancer Foundation Women's Event in Chattanooga. I was so in awe of her talent and spirit. I cannot describe what a loss this is.
I pray that you find peace in God's grace.
Cindy Crowl Cary
October 18, 2009
Dear John,
Though I never had the pleasure of meeting you, my heart goes out to you on the passing of Ruth. I grew up in the house across the street from the McGinnis family and have so many memories of all of us growing up together. My father called me yesterday to let me know of her passing. I am so sorry and so sad. I will keep you in my prayers. My mother died of Ovarian Cancer 13 years ago and I have done my part many times in memory of her. I will add Ruth and her memory to that work. To Frank, Freddie Lu, Julie, Laura, Rachel,and Erin, I am so sorry and I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers. Blessings to you all and to the memory and legacy that Ruth leaves.
October 16, 2009
Dear John,
Our hearts constantly cry for our beautiful, talented Ruth. The Northridge (CA) Methodist Church choir is singing the Faure Requiem on Nov. 21 and it will be dedicated to her memory. We'd be pleased to have you in the audience. Mom and Dad McGinnis
Nancy Roth
October 16, 2009
Dear John,
Condolences to you on the loss of your beautiful wife. Ruth and I met as students at California State University Northridge and became good friends. We then moved to New York City together, where we were roommates for a couple years while attending Juilliard. We shared good times and trying times. Ruth was an important part of my life. I am blessed to have had her as a friend. Her caring spirit lives on in those she has touched.
Nancy Roth
Graeme Street
October 12, 2009
John,
I am so sorry to hear of your soulmate lost. I, like you have been fortunate enough to have known and loved my soulmate. Not sure what I would do without her or her love for life. All I know is that all she has taught me as Ruth has taught to you and others is greater than either one of us. As usual, share it with others as you always have, with your words an energy. That is how she may live on eternally.
Your friend.
Graeme Street
Arlene Shulman
October 12, 2009
To John and Ruth's family- I am so sorry for your loss. Ruth was one of the most graceful beings I know. I am so glad that I got to spend some time getting to know her beauty, sweetness and grace.
Barney Viterise BSN,pastor at large
October 12, 2009
condolances to the immediate and extended family. my own loss in 95 was a redirection by the lord. i believe noone leaves till he/she is finished with their task. sounds like she has left a vast legacy in both word and music.
Glen Baxter
October 12, 2009
Dear John,
I am deeply saddened by the news of your loss. I lost my wife Margarete of 30 years on May 2nd, love will help you through tough times ahead.
Glen Baxter
Vicky Greenbaum
October 11, 2009
I want to send out my condolences to Ruth's husband, family and friends--her passing is a shock. We grew up together at Patrick Henry Junior High School, Granada Hills High School, and CSU Northridge, all in the Los Angeles area. Blessings to Ruth's memory and to all those she leaves behind--
Bob Gordon
October 10, 2009
I was so surprised to hear about Ruth's passing and today's service was a heartfelt testimony to her life and influence on those she met. I was fortunate to have met Ruth and work with her many years ago. Gracious and generous are two of many words to describe her. She will be missed and remembered.
Doug Cameron
October 9, 2009
So Saddened to hear of Ruth's passing,
I knew her when she was a young woman, and have seen how she developed into a caring, spiritual and loving person. I can see she touched many people in her life, and that's what it's all about. My heart goes out to the family.
Warmest regards,
Doug Cameron
Andrew Lynn
October 9, 2009
My sympathy is deeply expressed to the family and many fans of Ruth! Through my friend Christopher Davis, Producer for Ruth's wonderful CDs, I felt like I knew Ruth personally, though I had never had the privilege of meeting her. Please know her legacy will live on forever. I continue to enjoy the ministry of her CDs and appreciate all the talents and gifts that Ruth so graciously bestowed. May God bless the family and dear friends of Ruth during this difficult time. Sincerely, Andrew Lynn, Nashville, TN
Keith Safford
October 9, 2009
I never met Ruth but heard of her through John, a member of Team Cyclo-CORE. I will never forget reading John's blog around the end of July 2006 explaining that "they are in shock" after hearing about Ruth's diagnosis. I started cycling in January 2001 after recieving a brochure from Team in Training to train for a century bike ride to fight cancer. I lost my mom to cancer and have been to too many funerals due to cancer. We bought a number of her CD's and love them especially the one for the holiday season titled "Awakening the Season". Ruth will be in my thoughts from now on as I train for more century rides to destroy this dreaded disease.
October 8, 2009
Dear John, it seems impossible that Ruth is no longer with you. How incredibly difficult this sorrowful time must be for you and Ruth's family. She was so amazing and inspiring and I've read her book over many times. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers...God Bless You. Joyce Leigh, Colorado Springs, Colorado
jimmy hodges
October 7, 2009
To the Family of Ruth: I was simply in DavisKidd when I heard the most beautiful music and singing, complete with calm conversation and communication by a loving, deeply caring person--Ruth. She touched me. I purchased a CD, got on the mailing list, and journeyed on several occasions back to DavisKidd to hear her. Her leaving makes me ache, even as I rejoice in her life, her choices, her attitude, and her faith. Be blessed with her legacy and her life. jimmy hodges
Marie Roberts
October 7, 2009
My sympathy to the McGinnis Family on the loss of this beautiful lady. Ruth, your talent was awe inspiring and you lived more in your short lifetime than some who are given length of years. Thank you for all the lives you have touched..Rest in Peace...
Jack Gaw
October 7, 2009
No longer will I be able to look down our street and see your face or hear your inspirational voice in neighborly conversation, but, Ruth, I always will see and hear you in my heart.
Aimée Valiquette
October 7, 2009
Thank you Ruth for giving my family a memorable Christmas evening of live music with your trio at Lillie Belle's of Franklin not so many years ago. You were a truly elegant soul who will not be forgotten.
October 7, 2009
Dear Family of Ruth,
Ruth played at our daughter's wedding on August 1, 2009. As always, her music was powerfully beautiful and made the ceremony so incredibly special. I will always treasure not only her cds (I have all of them), but also the dvd of my daughter's wedding. She was quite a blessing and will be missed! The music in heaven is even more beautiful now!
Gail Powell
Loretta Fowlkes
October 7, 2009
What a wonderful life! What a beautiful musician. Thanks for leaving us inspiration.
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