Tucked up safe & sound in your kitchen dipping celery sticks in salt; watching you with wonder while in your element feeding flocks of birds on your back verandah; the time you sent the Mormons packing with the garden hose; my cat Miska curled up on the antique chair, storytime with Alex & Pippi. So many happy memories in your house. We were privileged and blessed to have had you in our lives. I've never forgotten how safe, loved & welcome I felt in your house. Thank you for being my Aunty, thank you for it all. Rest in peace. Love to you & Uncle Tom xx

Ruth was a grandmother to me - a friend and mentor. I will never forget her kindness to me and my family. Ruth befriended me as a young boy and was a shelter during troubled times. She was the first person to make me poached eggs, the person who helped me understand the local bully, who taught me to see the beauty of a garden and the wonders of feeding the birds. When I was struggling at school, Ruth single handedly taught me the times table and perservered with me until I mastered it. In return I would clean out her birdbath, clean out her gutters, and help Tom crush aluminium cans! Ruth has taught me one of life's great lessons - the importance of kindness to strangers and the powerful impact that even one great adult can have on a child. I loved her dearly and will try to do her memory justice by emulating her kindness in life.

We always called you "Aunty Ruth" from the day we moved next door to you - you were our aunt in every way for a very big part of our lives. More importantly, you were mum's loyal friend and her biggest support day-in day-out through many very hard years; for that, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You were mum's "rock' and she never ever took you for granted, has always kept in touch and held you fondly in her heart. Rest in peace Aunty Ruth.

Ruth, there will always be a special place in our hearts for you. Your friendship and support - never taken for granted - greatly appreciated. We have many happy memories from the 20 years we lived next door to you and the very special Tom. Love Noela, Danielle, Tiffany, Shane & Kisane xxxx

Aunty Ruth was the most positive person I knew growing up. She helped my mum, Noela and my 3 younger siblings though some very tough times. Living next door to her for many years and listening to her sing song voice calling out yoo hoo when she was popping over still makes me smile. Thank you for everything you gave and did for us. We loved you Ruthie and hope you have found your beloved Tommy and enjoying a nice G&T in the sky.