Ruth Ann Parlette, fondly known as Ann, passed away peacefully on September 11, 2023, in Summerville, South Carolina. Born on April 2, 1931, in Baltimore, Maryland, she was the loving daughter of the late Thomas Hutchison, Jr., and Edna Ruth Tucker.
Ann was deeply loved and will be sorely missed by her extended family. She was the devoted wife of the late C. Winfield Parlette, with whom she shared many cherished years. She was a beloved mother to Rod Gaither, Sr. and his wife Elaine, Lynne Gaither, Carol Ann McHenry and her husband Bob, and
John Gaither.
A doting grandmother, she held close to her heart her grandchildren Courtney and her husband Joseph, Rod, Jr. and his wife Kristi, Joshua, Rob, Chris and his wife Victoria, Ryan and his wife Maria, Annmarie and her husband Chris, and Cari and her husband Zach. The joy of her life was her great-grandchildren Autumn, Jacob, Madison, Morgan, Autumn, Shawn, Declan, Briar, Alyssa, Isabella, Camden, and Amelia.
Ann spent her career as an educational assistant, guiding young minds and inspiring a love for learning. Her dedication to service extended beyond her professional life. She was a committed member of the Fifth District Volunteer Fire Department and the Maryland Fire Chief’s Association Ladies Auxiliary, where she also served as past president. Her service to her community was a testament to her spirit of generosity and her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those around her.
Beyond her career and community service, Ann was a lifelong Girl Scout and scout leader, instilling in generations of young women the values of courage, confidence, and character. Her spirit of adventure, her love for learning, and her commitment to service were hallmarks of her leadership. She believed in the power of girls and the strength of women, and she devoted her life to empowering them to be leaders in their communities and change-makers in the world.
Those who knew Ann would describe her as friendly, spirited, and loving. Her radiant smile and infectious laughter could light up any room. Her spirited nature was contagious, inspiring those around her to live life to the fullest. Above all, she was a loving individual, always putting the needs of others before her own. Her kindness knew no bounds, and her love was felt by all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Ann’s life was a testament to the power of love, service, and dedication. From her family to her community, she left an indelible mark on everyone she touched. As we remember Ann, we celebrate a life well-lived, a life full of love, laughter, and service. We remember a woman who gave selflessly, loved fiercely, and lived fully. Her legacy will live on in her family and in the countless lives she touched throughout her life.
In honoring Ann’s life, we remember not just the end, but the beautiful life that she lived. We remember her as a loving wife, a devoted mother, a doting grandmother, a dedicated community servant, and a cherished friend. We remember her as a woman of grace, of strength, and of unwavering love. Her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those she loved and in the communities she served.
Ruth Ann Parlette, a beacon of light and love in this world, will be dearly missed but never forgotten.
The family will receive friends on Thursday September 21, 2023 at Slack Funeral Home, P.A., 3871 Old Columbia Pike, Ellicott City, Marylandfrom 2-4 and 6-8 pm. A fire department memorial service will be held at 7 pm. Funeral services will be held on Friday September 22, 2023 at Mt. Zion United Methodist Church, 12430 Scaggsville Road, Highland, Maryland 20777 at 11 am. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.
The family has asked that in lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Maryland Fire Chiefs Association in Ann’s memory.
MFCA
PO Box 2066
Hagerstown, MD 21742
