Ruth E. Lessard

Ruth E. Lessard, 96 years old, of Alfred, ME, died Thursday morning June 16, 2005 in Sanford, ME.Mrs. Lessard was born on July 17, 1908 in Springvale, ME. She was the daughter of Lumen and Angie Holt Hill. As a child Ruth spent her time in Springvale, and was a graduate of Sanford High School. For several years Ruth worked at the Goodall-Sanford Textile Mills in the weaving room until their closing. Ruth also farmed and worked their 60-acre farm in Alfred, growing their own fruits and vegetables, and canning them for the winter season.Ruth also enjoyed traveling. She toured much of the United States while visiting her daughter and son-in-law at various military installations. She was an avid reader, and a member of the St. Georges Episcopal Church of Sanford where she was active in the St. Elizabeth's Guild.Predeceasing Ruth are her husbands Ralph Gerrish, and Harvey Lessard, and a sister Floral Morrill.Surviving is a daughter Patricia J. Watson and her husband Richard of Springvale, a son Roland Gerrish and his wife Jacqueline of Alfred, six grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, and three great great-grandchildren.A period of visitation will be held on Sunday June 19, 2005 from 6 to 8 PM at the Carll-Heald and Black Funeral Home, 580 Main St. Springvale, ME. Services for Mrs. Lessard will be held on Monday, June 20th in St. Georges Episcopal Church at 10:00 AM. Committal services will follow at riverside Cemetery in Springvale.In lieu of flowers the family suggest that memorial contributions be made to the St. Georges Memorial Fund, 3 Emerson St., Sanford, ME 04073..