Ruth Ann Courney, age 91, of Windermere, passed away on July 25, 2021. Ruth was born on April 25, 1930 in Cleveland, Ohio, the daughter of Paul George Smith and Ruth Alice Ashenfelter Smith.

She is survived by her husband Alan B. Courney, son Dane Scott Courney, daughters Kathryn Nichols (Randy), Karen Tischler, and Leslie Aguilar (Frank), and granddaughter Shannon Nichols. She was pre-deceased by her mother Ruth Alice Collier, and granddaughter Heather Michele Nichols.

Ruth's story ...

Ruth was born into a family that loved to travel. During her early childhood, Ruth, her brother Don, and parents took long cross-country road trips with their vintage travel trailer. This instilled Ruth's sense of adventure and desire to learn new cultures and visit as many places as she could.

After marrying Alan in Cleveland, OH they moved to Miami, FL where Ruth's mother, Ruth Sr., lived. Al completed his studies at the University of Miami, and son and daughter Scott and Kathy, were born.

The family then moved to Akron, OH where daughter Karen was born. Then on to Orlando where Al worked at Martin Company and daughter Leslie was born.

After the four children finished school, Ruth pursued her love of art at Valencia Community College where she received her AA Degree. Ruth enjoyed drawing, painting, etching, printmaking, and pottery. Her many works of art are proudly displayed in her home and family members homes. Ruth adored all kinds of artistic expression including ballet, opera, and theater.

Ruth loved to travel. During their 70 years of marriage, Ruth and Al traveled the United States including Hawaii, Alaska, and Puerto Rico. They visited the Caribbean, Central America, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, Greece, UK, and more, with Australia being Ruth's favorite. Ruth always had a long list of places she wanted to visit. Many of their travels were with friends from the Lockheed Martin Retirement Group.

Another lifelong joy was the ocean, and putting her toes in the sand at Miami, Daytona, and New Smyrna Beaches. She was also an accomplished seamstress.

Ruth held a special place in her heart for her grandchildren Michele and Shannon. She was a fun and unique grandma.

Ruth's one unaccomplished dream was that she never learned to drive a motorcycle, though she spent many a happy hour as a passenger riding with her schoolmates and Godson, Ed. She always looked forward to the next ride.

Ruth is dearly loved by her many friends and family.

Our beloved Ruth will be greatly missed and her spirit remains within us.

Ruth's Celebration of Life will be held Friday, August 6, 2021. Please contact the family for further details.

The family of Ruth Courney invites you to leave a message of condolence on the Tribute Wall created in her loving memory.