Ruth Gallant

Ruth Gallant died peacefully September 7, 2024, after 105 years of life. She was born March 24, 1919, in Crystal, New Hampshire to Prosper and Irene (nee Daniels) Gallant. She is survived by her sister, Shirley Roewe, and her brothers, John (Bud) and Richard Gallant, and seventeen nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents; her brothers, Raymond and Gerald; and nephews Raymie, David, Paul, and Chris.

Ruth spent her childhood in Vermont and earned her first teaching degree in 1938 from the State Normal School in Castleton, Vermont. Ruth began her teaching career in a one-room schoolhouse and then later a three-room schoolhouse. During WWII, Ruth began working for General Electric in Schenectady, New York. After nine years working for GE, Ruth returned to teaching. Over the next twelve years, Ruth taught in Dayton, Ohio, and at various U.S. military bases in Bremerhaven, Germany, Vicenza, Italy, Tokyo, Japan, and Libya, North Africa. During this time, Ruth also earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Miami University and a Doctor of Education degree from Indiana University.

Ruth’s career as a university professor included positions at Indiana University, Marquette University, and the University of North Dakota. She retired from the University of North Dakota in 1984.

Ruth was an active Grail member. The Grail is an international movement of women working for world peace, justice, and renewal of the earth. She discovered the Grail organization while teaching at Indiana University and embraced their mission wholeheartedly. She attended Grail programs and international conventions. Ruth took a sabbatical in 1970 to develop and implement a semester partnering with the Grail for college credit. Ruth took another sabbatical in 1982 to live in a Grail house in Australia for six months. She retired to Loveland, Ohio, near Grailville and spent many years helping with and participating in Grailville programs and projects. She had many lifelong friends from this community of women.

Ruth loved her family. She spent many holidays and vacations with her baby sister Shirley and her family. Ruth also loved spending time in Vermont with her brothers’ families and when she wasn’t traveling, she loved to spoil her dogs and quilt.

Ruth holds a special place in our hearts. She was always generous and supportive. She listened to us, played with us, and celebrated with us. One cherished family tradition for the past 60 years was her reading of The Night Before Christmas by Clement C. Moore and illustrated by Grandma Moses on Christmas Eve. Three generations of Shirley’s family will continue to have fond memories of her annual animated rendition.

Heartfelt gratitude goes to Ruth’s niece Susan and her husband, David Long who cared for her in their home since 2018. Their love and compassion for Ruth, dedication to her care, and commitment were a wonder to behold. We also want to thank Ruth’s devoted nurse, Shara. The love and care she gave to her were immeasurable.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Grail. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, September 13, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. at Resurrection Memorial Cemetery Chapel.