I am so sorry we missed Ruth’s funeral and even more sorry that her family had to face organising such a sad event. I hope the colours worn were as bright as she deserved and the smiles as wide as they could be on the day as people shared their memories and love for Ruth.
 
I did not know Ruth well – and now of course wish there had been more time to address that.  Ruth and I met through dog training 3 years ago when Poppy was a pup at the same time as our Springer Daisy.  As we progressed (not always at the same pace it has to be said!) Ruth’s bright and engaging smiles, her enthusiasm and positivity, her kindness and sense of humour, were just a few of the qualities that I came to depend on to make Thursday evenings a highlight of the week.  I loved that she insisted shorts should be worn all summer- despite evenings that sometimes struggled to feel summery. I loved that she was generous, energetic and inventive in helping others (that’s you Millie) to suddenly realise what a training task involved and thereby enabling corners to be turned. I loved that I would occasionally see her cycling along our lane at a weekend…and think “there goes Ruth, where’s Poppy?” I loved the way she brought out the very best in Poppy and that together, as a truly brilliant team, they absolutely smashed the Kennel Club Gold Citizen Award…while their classmates completely flunked it. And yes…Daisy loved that Ruth always had a pouch full of chicken treats that she and Poppy were happy to share.  I think Daisy recognised that Ruth was a person anyone (perhaps especially a scared, nervous pup) could trust and feel safe with.
 
Anyone who knew Ruth at all has lost something vital and important. I can only being to imagine what those she loved most are going through at this difficult time, The immense pain and sense of loss of course simply reflect the brilliance of what she was and what she gave. 
 
I hope her family can stay strong and learn how to remember with smiles rather than tears all that your amazing Ruth was…not just to you but to everyone she met.
 
Jane Eastwood, Paul Mahoney and Daisy the Springer