Ruth Marie Elliott

Elliott, Ruth Marie, of Wichita, peacefully departed this life on February 13, 2005. She was born March 20, 1916, in Chanute, Kansas, the eldest of eight children of Eunice and Oscar Nelson. Ruth had lived in Wichita since 1942 and was always active in the community. She was a past president and director of the Womens Aeronautical Association and a member of Rotary Anns. She enjoyed very much serving as a volunteer Gray Lady at Veterans Hospital. She was a member of Eastminster Presbyterian Church and United Presbyterian Women. Ruth was an active golfer and bowler as long as her health permitted and a long-time member of Crestview Country Club. She loved playing bridge and other card games and always enjoyed the spirit of competition. Ruth was fortunate to have lead a full life, enjoying her family and friends. She and her beloved husband John, with whom she shared 65 years of marriage, enjoyed travel together in the United States, the European continent, United Kingdom and Caribbean cruises. Ruth gave so much to so many. She was the center of a strong family and family life. She is survived by husband John of the home, daughter, Karin Tierney (Tim) of Overland Park; sons, Nelson (Helen) of Leawood and Roger (Nancy) of Wichita; brothers, Forrest Nelson of Riverton, and Allan Nelson of Manhattan; sister, Marian Geeding of Wichita. Also surviving are seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She leaves a large extended family which was very close to her and loved her very much. Service 10:30 A.M., Thursday, Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Wichita, KS. Memorials have been established with St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105; and American Heart Association, P.O. Box 1653, Topeka, KS 66601-9865. Tributes may be sent to the family via www.downingandlahey.com. Downing Lahey East Mortuary.