Obituary of Ruth A Townsend

Ruth Townsend was born October 28, 1930 to the late Samuel and Amanda Chisolm in Pomona, Florida. She was the youngest of seven other siblings; Esther, Gussi, Sam, Denise, Chester, Marie and Bernice.

As a youth, Ruth spent her summers in New Jersey with her family as a farm laborer, picking potatoes. She learned what it meant to work hard, to save money and the value of her family. She also learned to appreciate the lessons of the church. It was during the 1940's that she came to the Great Neck Community, and became a faithful member of St. Paul A.M.E. Zion Church. She later became her own boss and started her own business as a very successful caterer. She used her earnings to enjoy vacations on cruises before most of us knew what it was.

Ruth was only 4'11", weighing no more than 80 lbs with a huge heart. She always stood tall and dressed in the latest fashions. We remember her driving a brand new red convertible with a white top called, "Wild Cat", and used a pillow to see over the steering wheel.

After losing her son at a young age, Ruth opened her heart even more. She loved and cared for all the members of her family and friends.