Ruth Hafford Beattie

Ruth Alice Hafford Beattie, at the age of 96, died peacefully in Woodstock, VT, January 25, 2012 with her daughter and sons by her side. Additional to her daughter, Carla B. Bucklin and sons, Ross H. Beattie and John S. Beattie, she is survived by 10 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, 2 great great grandchildren and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Ruth was predeceased in 1995 by her loving husband, David P. Beattie. Born in Groveton, NH on February 22, 1915, she was raised in Groveton and graduated from Groveton High School in 1933 as President and valedictorian of her senior class. After graduating in 1936 from Plymouth Normal School, Plymouth, NH, Ruth became a highly respected, dedicated high school Business Teacher, serving in schools at New London, Whitefield, Stratford and Groveton, NH until her retirement in 1976. She was an active member of Delta Gamma Sorority. As a life-time member of the United Methodist Church, Ruth was deeply involved with church activities including youth activities and teaching Sunday School. During the late 1950's she served as Methodist Lay-Preacher for the congregations in North Stratford, Stark, Milan, West Milan and Errol, New Hampshire. She was an avid sports enthusiast her entire life - fishing, playing and refereeing basketball, and playing golf with her family and friends well into her mid '80s. Ruth was devoted to her family and attended as many children and grandchildren sports and school activities as possible while enjoying traveling with her husband, David. She was an avid reader and always looked for the challenge of a tough cross-word puzzle. Before returning to NH in 2004 for home care and assisted living, Ruth lived for several years in Sun City Center, Florida where she enjoyed the warm weather and the comfort and camaraderie of many close friends. In lieu of a memorial and church service, there will be an 11:00 a.m., August 11, 2012 graveside service at the Ridgewell Cemetery in Guildhall, Vermont. Ruth's family recommends those wishing to donate memorial gifts to please consider the Alzheimer's Health Care Services, NCEP, Attn: Director, 31 Pleasant Street, Berlin, NH 03570 or Groveton United Methodist Church, 3 Church Street, Groveton, NH 03582.

Ruth Hafford Beattie

February 22, 1915 - January 25, 2012