Ruth Atchison Obituary

RUTH MITCHELL ATCHISON
Died July 7, 2011 from complications after a major stroke. Ms. Atchison was born May 11, 1933 and lived a very full life. As a child she lived through the bombing of Pearl Harbor while her father was stationed there as an Admiral in the Navy. She attended Wellesley College where she earned a degree in Political Science/International Relations. She married Robert Atchison in 1956. As a young woman, she worked as a reporter and interviewed Salvador Dali, Louis Armstrong and other talented artists. She went on to become a highly-respected editor and writer in the private and public sectors, most recently with Job Corps. Ms. Atchison had a lifelong interest in human rights and international affairs. She was active in the civil rights movement, working hands-on in fair housing to uncover racial discrimination. She attended many civil rights rallies and marches, including Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech in 1963, and she once ended up in jail with a toddler in tow. She remained involved in politics and equal rights until her death. Many people noted Ms. Atchison's beauty, intelligence and style, as well as her ability to always tell an entertaining story. She had a great appreciation for literature, art and music, as well as flowers, gardens and all things beautiful. She was active to the end and kept a youthful enthusiasm for life, always being up for new experiences. Ms Atchison is survived by her four children, Julie Atchison, Dorie Atchison, Cindy (Evan) Jones and Luanne (Eric Schneider) Atchison; six beloved grandchildren and one great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Atchison, and her good friend, Gershon Meckler. Her vibrant presence will be greatly missed. Memorial service will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Civil Liberties Union, 125 Broad Street, 18th Floor, New York, New York 10004 www.aclu.org

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Published by The Washington Post on Jul. 10, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Ruth Atchison

16 Entries

Marcia Meckler

October 14, 2011

Ruth was such a great spirit. I know how much she meant to my father and I am grateful for all she did for him. My condolences to her family.

Julie Atchison

September 16, 2011

To everyone who has written here about my extraordinary mother, let me say that it has meant a great deal to me, my sisters and the rest of our family. My mother's loss was an unexpected and devastating one for all of us. Thank you so much for sharing with us.

September 16, 2011

I had the great pleasure of having Ruth as one of my most adored employees. I am so floored right now because I just found out and I will continue to keep Ruth's family in my prayers.

Tabitha Tyson, ETI Washington, DC

Jeffrey Meckler

August 15, 2011

Ruth had a loving and caring spirit. She was a wonderful friend to my father and helped me and my sisters greatly after he died in 1994. My sympathies to her children and family.

Jeffry Jones

July 15, 2011

A number of years ago, I had the privilege of working all too briefly with Ruth. She was one of my more memorable office mates. Ruth was gracious and funny. She was a lovely person in every way. I feel lucky to have known her. My condolences go out to her family.

Heather Edmonds

July 12, 2011

I am very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with Ruth the last several years. She was a sheer joy to be around; I have not met someone who is so hardworking, graceful, and exuberant. The love and pride she had for her family and loved ones was evident in everything she said and did. You have my deepest sympathies.

Nancy Atchison

July 11, 2011

Ruth brought so much warmth and happiness to the Atchison clan. Bob adored her. She was a great mother. It was a joy to see how much she cared for and nurished her four wonderful daughters. She had a way of connecting to people with genuine interest. We haven't been together much in recent years, but we will remember a truly fine loving sister. Tom and Nancy Atchison

July 11, 2011

" We are all saddened to hear of Ms. Atchison's passing. Although a long time good friend of Dorie's, I was not blessed to have met her Mom. With her many contributions to the community as well as other organizations, Ms Atchison will always be remembered for making our hometown a better place to reside. We are truly grateful. What a beautiful lady inside and out. .....Ann Koenig and Family

July 11, 2011

Julie, Dori, Luanne and Cindy,
We are so sorry for the loss of your mother, Ruth. What a charming woman she was, with a presence that graced every room she occupied. I have a very fond memory of her visit to Minneapolis around 2000. She shared the fascinating story of her Pearl Harbor experience as a child. That tale is embedded in my memory. Tom has always had great affection for Ruth. Our thoughts are with you during this time.
Love, Cindy Wold and Tom Atchison

Tracy Morris

July 11, 2011

Ruth was a wonderfully funny and vibrant person – an inspiration to many. My sincere condolences to your family.

July 11, 2011

I worked for Gershon Meckler in Herndon, VA for several years up to his death. I knew Ruth as his technical writer and friend and I always liked her. She was a very talented and classy lady. Sorry for your loss. Cindy Martin

July 11, 2011

Mom was a great inspiration to her children and grandchildren and many other people. She will always be a part of everyone who knew her.
~Luanne

Ruth Atchison at the Newport Jazz Festival when she was a young woman.

July 11, 2011

Julie and your family, your mother was truly a fascinating women. So glad I knew her. Love, Janet

stacy lang

July 11, 2011

A great loss for all. What a beautiful person, inside and out. I'm glad she was here for a while.

July 10, 2011

Dear Luanne and family,
I was very sorry to read in the Washington Post today about your mother's death. I remember her fondly and as a very vivacious person. I also have fond memories of your dad (tinkering with the VWs, etc.). I hope all is well with you all, and my sincere condolences.
Best,
Janet Coleman

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