Mrs. Ruth Eleanor (VanNostrand) Handy, age 81, of Gloversville, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2016, at her home after a long illness.
She was born January 28, 1934, in Dunbar, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Ira and Margaret Gummerson Lowry.
Ruth is survived by eight children, Gary, Ira Joe, Larry and Andy VanNostrand and Brenda VanNostrand Hayes, all of Gloversville, Kevin VanNostrand of Johnstown; Kenneth VanNostrand and Linda VanNostrand Fountain of Florida; two brothers, Ira Lowry of Pennsylvania and Alfred Mo Lowry of Mayfield. She also has 23 grandchildren and 31 great-grandchildren.
She was predeceased by her parents, three brothers, one sister and one granddaughter.
Ruth worked in the glove industry and furniture factory for quite a few years before going to work at the Fulton County Infirmary and then became a home health aide until she retired.
Ruth loved life, friends and family. She tremendously enjoyed her animals, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and she was always quick to hand out treats to all the children. To all who knew her, she was Ruthie, Ruth, Gram or Mom. Some knew her only as Eleanor.
There will be no calling hours per Ruthie’s request. Gathering arrangements may be made at a later date. She will be cremated and taken to her home in Pennsylvania. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to a charity of your choice or to the James A. Brennan Memorial Humane Society, 437 Nine Mile Tree Road, Gloversville, NY 12078.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Walrath & Stewart Funeral Home, Gloversville. Online condolences may be made at www.brbsfuneral.com.
