Ruth Florence Timothy
Ruth Florence Timothy, 84, long time resident of Hamden, wife of the late Roy Timothy, passed away at her home on June 22, 2013 surrounded by her family. Born in New Haven on September 26, 1928 to the late Albert and Lillian LaFlame Benson. Ruth leaves her children, Judith (Bruce) Sylvester of Hamden, Kathleen (Ronald) Dietter of Hamden, Maureen (Michael) Richards of Bohanon, VA, Sandra (Roger) Marler of Ashaway, RI, Laurie Timothy of Hamden & Michael Timothy of Lempster, NH; grandchildren, Jason & Eric Timothy, David & Scott Dietter, Kate Richards, Lauren Mackey, Christine & Jennifer Sylvester; great- granddaughter, Ashley Mackey; brother, Robert Benson of Bluffton, SC. Predeceased by a brother Albert Benson, Jr. Ruth was a graduate of Hamden High class of '46 and Hartford Hospital School of Nursing class of '49. She went on to attend Yale School of Nursing and SCSU. Ruth began her career as a private duty nurse but went on to be the Director of the Regional Young Parents Program for over 25 years. A lot of her spare time was spent making blankets and quilts for everyone she knew. Ruth was very family oriented and loved attending all the different activates her grandchildren were in. Private arrangements are in the care of BEECHER & BENNETT, 2300 Whitney Ave, Hamden.
Aunt Ruth touched many more lives than she could have ever realized through her giving to others without any regard for personal gain or recognition. She was always supportive of me and the Army I serve in even though at times she rightfully questioned how we conduct business. Aunt Ruth could always be counted on to let you know how she felt and yet possessed the ability to do so in a light hearted manner that made you feel at ease. I will forever remember the best of times at 50 Dallas St during the summers when the Benson crew came over for our big picnics; Uncle Roy and my Father on the grill as they enjoyed a cold adult beverage or two, my Mother and Ruth setting up for the massive feed and all the cousins in and out of the pool, smacking the tetherball, and playing shuffle board out on the driveway. To All of Uncle Roy and Aunt Ruths Daughters and my great friend cousin Micheal I send my heartfelt condolences on the loss of a lovely lady and know that she will forever be in my heart.
Dear Timothy Family- We are friends and neighbors of Ruth’s brother Bob Benson. We unfortunately never had the pleasure to meet Ruth. Bob spoke of his sister often and said that she kept in touch and wrote him letters on a steady basis. I know that she will be missed very much by both Bob and his wife Gail. May Ruth Rest in Peace,
I did not have the great fortune of meeting .Aunt Ruth., as she is referred to by my husband, but I did receive tremendous joy from reading the letters she sent us. She even sent some CT fall leaves in one letter…which Kevin and I loved. When Kevin was deployed a couple of years ago Aunt Ruth made some quilts for me to take to the soldiers that remained at Ft Campbell. She was so very thoughtful. I am forever thankful I knew Aunt Ruth thru the many stories told by Kevin, Bob and Gail. I know she was a lovely lady and will be missed by all who knew her.
It was such a blessing to have met Mother Ruth through the Black Church at Yale. She had such energy and a vibrant spirit! She so generously shared her time and encouragement with us students, and through her stories her love of God and her love for her family were so evident. I am so thankful to have met her and for the impact that she had on our church family. I pray continued peace and joyful memories for the Timothy family. Mother Ruth was an absolute treasure.
Kathy, sorry to hear of the passing of your mom. My condolenceses to you, Ron and all the kids.
Mother Ruth belied her years – always full of energy, keeping up with us college kids even in her 70s (at the time). She was a caring person whose dedication to the Black Church at Yale was evident immediately. It was a privilege to know her and to be her church pianist and choir director. My condolences to the Timothy family. You will remain in my prayers. Thank you for sharing Mother Ruth with us.
Mother Ruth had a very kind soul. She was so dedicated to the members of the Black Church at Yale. I always appreciated the snacks she would bring us to eat after every church service. She was an honored and loved member of the BCAY family. I know that she is at peace now and I pray for God’s comfort over the loved ones she leaves. Sincerely, Sherrise Pond Yale Class of 2006
Mother Ruth is a part of some of my fondest memories of the Black Church at Yale. A faithful servant, a wise soul and the embodiment of loving-kindness. She will be missed.
Mother Ruth was a beacon of love, light, and generosity. The commitment to her children which led them to the Black Church at Yale, and the continued, unwavering dedication she showed to all of us involved with BCAY and the Afro-American Cultural Center is second to none. I will fondly remember her bright smile, caring eyes, and gentle spirit. It was a pleasure to have worked at the Center while she was there and such a blessing to have recently talked with her at BCAY’s anniversary a couple of years ago. Rest in splendid peace, Mother Ruth.
Mother Ruth was a constant in BCAY, a church that by definition consisted of so many temporary elements. She demonstrated the permanence of God’s love year after year, caring for us with a dedication that could only come from the Holy Spirit. One of the highlights of my graduation experience was knowing that I would finally receive an apron that she’d adorned with the BCAY logo, an experience I’d anticipated my entire time there. I remember Mother Ruth with fondness and admiration and am grateful to have known her. She remains an inspiration to service for me. I pray God will comfort and strengthen you, her family.
Mother Ruth was a kind soul of the greatest caliber. Her gentle, loving nature was a rare and precious gift. I was blessed to experience her presence during my time as a student and minister at the Black Church at Yale. I cannot say enough about the way she encouraged and supported the student body and set a tremendous example through her service and joy. She will be missed deeply. My prayers and thoughts are with the Timothy family. Mother Ruth was one of a kind.
Mother Ruth was truly a precious gift to BCAY. During my time as pastor, she was a committed servant and a true friend. Through the years we kept in touch every Christmas with a card and an update on how the grandsons were doing. I love her and will miss her dearly. My prayers are with the family. Rest in peace Mother.
Sorry to hear of Ruth’s passing. I have a lot of fond memories of the picnics she had at the house. May your memories of her give you some peace at this sad time.
The Johnson family would like to express our deepest sympathy on the loss of your mother. Our parents, Bob & Barbara, were best friends of your parents and we have very fond memories of you mother. She was a very fun-loving and caring individual and a good friend to all. Fondly-Linda, Gail, Debbie & Jo-ann
To Laurie and the entire Timothy family- I am sorry to hear about your Mother, my thoughts are prayers are with you. Your Mother and my Mom, Jane Berry Walsh, graduated from Hamden High School together in ’46. They knew each other very well, and saw each other often, when Laurie and I played softball for Hamden in the late 70’s. She will be always be with you.
To the family: my sincere condolences. Mother Ruth was a treasure of BCAY and will be truly missed. Her love and passion for The Black Church at Yale was evident when she spoke of what it meant to her and her boys. She helped to remind us of the unique calling of the Church and the power of hospitality and kindness. We celebrate her eternal rest and grieve the loss of the gift that she was.