Tributes to respected unsung hero Ruth Hardy

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TRIBUTES have been paid to one of Ryedale’s unsung heroes.

​Ruth Hardy, died on Saturday, September 30, aged 51, following a battle with cancer.

Chris Newsam, one of Ruth’s friends, said: “Many in Malton and Norton knew Ruth in her many and various roles and interests.

“Ruth had a passion for helping people drawn from her own experience and her deep faith and convictions.

“Local people may well have known Ruth through her work for Mencap, Next Steps or as part of the Street Angels, or in her interest in Karate where she was working towards attaining Black Belt level two.”

Chris said Ruth ran creative writing classes, and also had work published. She also attended various churches, including the Elim Church, St Michael’s Church and the Quakers.

“Ruth didn’t have an easy life and struggled with her own mental health issues along with other illnesses, but despite these she worked tirelessly seeking to make life better for others. Her courage, sense of humour and determination during her recent struggle with a recurrence of cancer has inspired those who knew her.

“My wife Janice and I came to know Ruth through Malton Quaker Meeting over the past few years.

“We were encouraged by her deep and insightful ministry among us and her willingness to humbly embrace any tasks the meeting needed. We have been enriched by knowing her and will greatly miss her.”

PC Jane Jones, of Malton Police, said: “Ruth was a respected part of our Street Angels, she put all her efforts into running it.
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“She had just recently left us as she had taken too much on. Ruth would do anything for her community and she will be sadly missed.

A committal service will take place at Octon Cremetorium on Friday, October 20, at noon, followed by a memorial meeting to remember the “Grace of God in the Life of Ruth Hardy” at the Friends (Quaker) Meeting House in Greengate, Malton, at 2.30pm.

For more information about the funeral arrangements, phone Chris Newsam, on 01653 693913.