Janet Catherine Ruddick: 1934-2021
 

Janet was deeply involved in local church life, was in demand as a local preacher, served on Baptist Union and Association committees and had strong ecumenical sympathies 

A congregation of about 90 attended Janet’s funeral at West Wilts Crematorium on 25 November 2020, shortly before what would have been her 87th birthday.

Although born in Fulham, London, Janet’s early life was spent in Frome Somerset. She can be heard reminiscing on the town’s shops here. 

She was a bright girl and attended the local grammar school and subsequently trained as a teacher at the Salisbury Training College. The best part of her teaching career was at the Lavington School and she was warmly remembered by her many students who have continued to live in the area.

She was deeply involved in local church life and served for a number of years as a deacon at Sheep Street Baptist Church, Devizes and was active in the town’s Churches Together as well as Wiltshire Churches Together. She was in demand as a local preacher and regularly served Methodist and United Reformed Churches, until mobility problems took their toll in her early 80s. She served on Baptist Union and Association committees and was trustee for the Free Churches on the Wiltshire Historic Churches Trust.

Her ecumenical sympathies led her to be involved in the life of bible-study groups in the Urchfont parish where she lived. Late in her career she went to University and her questing mind found her understanding of her faith enriched by meeting Jewish women through Ammerdown.

Her capacity for hospitality is legendary and she was most happy in conversation and feeding people. She baked and gardened with huge enthusiasm.

Although she never married, Janet had a large ‘adopted’ family as well as her own extended family. They, as well as a huge circle of friends, are grateful for her rich life and mourn her loss.

A memorial service will be held in Urchfont Parish Church at 3pm on Saturday 9 April followed by ‘Tea and Tributes’ in the Village Hall. All are welcome.

 

Morris Munns