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Ruth Eckart Dance

Ruth Madeline Eckart Dance, 95, passed away on Saturday February 20, 2021, in Gainesville, FL at the home of her daughter, Linda. She was born on August 11,1925, in the small railroad community of Raton, New Mexico to the late Roy F. Eckart and Vida Faye Eckart. The Eckart’s moved to Albuquerque where her late sister, Detta Margaret, was born. Ruth graduated from Albuquerque High and attended Baylor School of Nursing. She was a proud Baylor Bear. She married the love of her life Gilbert H. Dance on June 4th 1948. They were married for over 53 years, until his death in September 2001.

Ruth is survived by her daughters, Anna Faye Dance Sheppard (Joseph) and Linda Kaye Dance; her son, Thomas Roy Dance, grandson Joseph L. Sheppard IV, nieces, nephews and many special friends. Ruth had a long nursing career. She worked at the VA Hospital and at Presbyterian Hospital in the newborn nursery in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The family moved to Avon Park, Florida in 1971, and she worked as a nursing supervisor at Walker Memorial Hospital in Avon Park for many years. Ruth was an active member of the Avon Park Christian Church. Despite significant vision problems, she began and continued an email ministry that encouraged prayer for church members and their families and friends. Jesus Christ was always at the center of Ruth’s life followed by family and friends. She was kind hearted and never said a negative word about anyone. She was a tremendous blessing to all who knew her.

Ruth had a special place in her heart for the people at Stirring Waters at Lake Aurora Christian Camp and their efforts to create a water park for the disabled.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in her memory to: Stirring Waters at Lake Aurora Christian Camp 237 Golden Bough Road Lake Wales, FL 33898 or https://stirringwaters.world A celebration of her life will occur at a later date. “For Me to Live is Christ…”Philippians 1:21

Arrangements are under the care of MILAM FUNERAL AND CREMATION SERVICES 311 South Main Street Gainesville, FL. (352) 376-5361  www.milamfh.com

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In consideration of COVID-19, as well as the families we are serving, we would like for those of you whose immune systems are compromised please stay home and send the family a condolence card. We may also be forced to postpone services if this continues or worsens. Our profession as funeral directors is not only focused on serving families, but also protecting the families and the community at-large. Thank you and please take care!

In consideration of COVID-19, as well as the families we are serving, we would like for those of you whose immune systems are compromised please stay home and send the family a condolence card. We may also be forced to postpone services if this continues or worsens. Our profession as funeral directors is not only focused on serving families, but also protecting the families and the community at-large. Thank you and please take care!

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