Ruth G. Maynard

November 6, 1930 – October 18, 2017 Ruth G. Maynard, age 86, of Wilmington, DE, and formerly of Newark, DE, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family, on Wednesday, October 18, 2017, after complications from pneumonia. Born on November 6, 1930 in Melrose, Massachusetts to the late Fred and Ruth Goldthwait, Ruth was the youngest of 5 girls. Ruth was a devoted wife, mother, Nana, sister and friend. She was married to the love of her life for 65 years, having met Dan at her first freshman dance at the University of New Hampshire. She graduated from UNH with honors where she had been elected to Mortar Board, President’s Council, and Alpha Kappa Delta Sociology Honor Society. Ruth was a president of Alpha Xi Delta Sorority and secretary of her class. Over the last 60 years, she wrote her class letter for the UNH magazine. Ruth worked as a social worker in both Minnesota and Delaware. She volunteered with Meals on Wheels and worked as a crossing guard for many years, always a cheery presence for local school children. Having overcome agoraphobia, Ruth proudly mentored others afflicted with the disorder. Ruth had a zest for life and always saw the best in everyone. She had a strong faith in God and in other people. She was generous with her time, her love and her brownies. Ruth had a warm smile and an infectious laugh that would make everyone feel loved. Her favorite hobby was spoiling her grandchildren. Ruth’s happy place was sitting on the dock at Pine Needles on Lake Winnipesaukee. She called it God’s country. She was an incredible lady who touched all of us. She is survived by her husband, Daniel B. Maynard; her loving children, Daniel B. Maynard, Jr. (Barbara) and Kristine L. Maynard; as well as her three grandchildren, Daniel Maynard, Suzy Betts and Abby Betts. She is also survived by her older sister, Lucy. She is predeceased by her parents and three sisters. A visitation for family and friends will be held from 12 Noon until 1 pm on Friday afternoon, October 27, 2017, at the First Presbyterian Church of Newark, 292 West Main Street, Newark, DE, where a celebration of life will begin at 1 pm, followed by a reception. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Ruth’s honor may be made to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, 100 W. 10th Street, Suite 106, Wilmington, DE 19801. Below is a link to an article about Ruth that she did with the University of New Hampshire, about the power of reaching out and helping those who suffer from agoraphobia.