Ruth Heerling

Ruth Reiss Heerling, 90, passed away on February 23rd, 2011 at Community Hospice of NE Florida Hadlow Center with her loving daughter by her side and with companion dog, Annie, resting on her lap. She was born in Heidelberg, Germany and had resided in Mandarin, FL since 1988.

“Mother” Ruth will be remembered for her warm and loving heart. She was “green” before the word became popular and never wasted a thing, recycling to the end. Her years of correspondence to relatives in Germany and the U.S. kept her family connected. She was a member of Guardian Lutheran Church.

She is survived by her daughter, Gabriele K. Dempsey of Mandarin. She was preceded in death by her husband, Hellmut O. Heerling and sons, Olie Jorge and Hellmut “Skip” Heerling.

We want to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who called, visited and offered support. Hospice Chaplain Jim Balke was such a comfort to Ruth.

A Memorial Service will be held at a future date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Mandarin Museum and Historical Society P.O. Box 23601 Jacksonville FL 32241, or Community Hospice of NE Florida 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257.