Ruth K. Reid

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Ruth K. Reid, age 94, passed away peacefully Sunday morning, December 5, 2021, at her home in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. She was born in Pittsburgh, PA on May 14, 1927, to the late Edward W. and Matilda (Matchertz) Kartlick.

After high school, Ruth attended Westminster College in New Wilmington, PA and then graduated from the Chamberlain School of Retailing Fashion, a two-year fashion/business college in Boston, MA. Upon completing her studies, Ruth accepted a position as Executive Secretary to the president of Forest Oil Corporation in Bradford, PA. It was there that she met the love of her life, David I. Reid, a young businessman. They were married on October 2, 1954 and shared a wonderful life together until David’s passing 52 years later.   

Ruth's love of her daughters was equaled only to that which she had for her grandsons. She was so proud of her grandsons and adored them deeply. She would light up with a huge smile when she was able to spend time with them at her home or playing golf.

Ruth was an active member of every church she belonged to, serving as a Deacon, singing in the choir, and enjoying the many friends she made. She was honored with the Woman of the Year Award in 2015 at the Hyde Park Presbyterian Church in Tampa, FL. Additionally, she volunteered for various organizations throughout the years, including Meals on Wheels, Blood Bank, hospital Candy Stripers, Prime Timers and Philanthropic Education Organization (P.E.O.), a pioneering organization advocating academic opportunity and equality for women around the globe. For fun, Ruth loved going to the theater, traveling and was adventurous to try new activities. She enjoyed golf, learning the game at age 63, and was proud that she got a hole in one before she retired from golfing in her 80s. She was a competitive game player, and especially enjoyed bridge which she still played this year. She was an avid cookie baker and a warm, gracious hostess, who delighted in entertaining her family and friends.

Ruth is the beloved mother of Karin Reid Lee and her husband Roger, Peggy Reid Rhodes and her husband Michael Gartland; dearly loved grandmother of David E. Rhodes and Brian R. Lee; and Aunt to many nieces.

Ruth was preceded in death by her cherished husband, David, and parents, Edward and Matilda, brothers Edward Kartlick, Jr. and Richard Kartlick, and son-in-law, Roger E. Rhodes.  

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to P.E.O. Chapter Q, a philanthropic organization that provides educational opportunities for women worldwide, or a charity of your choice.

PEO Address: Susan Zepko, Treasurer PEO Chapter Q, 3809 W San Luis Street, Tampa, FL 33629