Gillian RUTHVEN Obituary

Jill was a very special person always speaking and acting kindly to those she met during her time working at Victoria University. We missed her and Stephen a lot when they retired to Nelson.

We worked with Jill and Stephen at Victoria University. Jill was an incredibly kind, hardworking and knowledgeable person. We were fortunate to attend their beautiful wedding in Nelson. They also came to ours in Rarotonga, even though Jill did not like to fly. Jill will be dearly missed; her smile, her wisdom, her caring heart.

Moe mai ra e hine. Aroha nui Stu and Morna

Jill was a gentle, caring and amazingly knowledgeable lady who always had 5 minutes to chat and catch up on daily life. My interactions with Jill are through Elma Turner Library and our first chat was about the spelling of Gillian / Jillian. I will miss her gorgeous smile and her love of chatting about anything.

We have been lucky to have Jill & Stephen as our neighbours for most of our children's lives. Jill was a lovely person and will be very much missed by our family.

I first met Jill through the Friends of the Library and was lucky enough to deepen our friendship in more recent times. There are many happy memories of times shared with her and Stephen when we discussed current events, arts and music, our pet cats and, always, irresistible books. Jill personified kindness. Her smile, her interest in others, her gentleness remained even through her illness. She was a wonderful, rare lady.
Heartfelt condolences to Stephen and family.

I was a classmate and friend of Jill during Canterbury university days in 1969-1971. It was very sad to hear that this friendly and lovely lady had died. She will be so missed by her family and friends. Heartfelt condolences. Wendy Edgar, Wellington

Jill was a loyal member Nelson Historical Society, along with Stephen, for many years. Her contribution as a hardworking member of the Committee, particularly in her voluntary role as the conscientious reporter of the monthly guest speakers and always working to a deadline. Her generosity with her knowledge and enthusiasm are remembered with gratitude.

On behalf of Nelson Public Libraries, we are deeply saddened by the passing of Jill. Her unwavering dedication to Nelson Public Libraries and her leadership of the Friends of the Library group left a lasting legacy. Jill´s passion, warmth, and tireless advocacy enriched our community and touched many lives. She will be remembered with great respect and affection.

I met Jill when we both worked at Victoria University and in later years sometimes saw her in Nelson where we regularly holiday. We enjoyed at least one meal at Wainui St with her and Stephen. Some wonderful photos of their participation in the Oamaru Steampunk Festival. I'll miss her warmth.

Jill loved books and libraries and played an important role in the Friends of the library group in Nelson. I enjoyed our chats at the Nelson bookchat she attended regularly too. Jill could always be found after the local orchestra concerts ready to talk about the music. Will miss you Jill.

I remember Jill from Canterbury University days, when she was on the back of Graeme's motorbike. I knew her when she had her two darling boys and I mourned with her when Robert was killed. Sadly we did not stay in touch in later years but I have warm memories of her friendship, her assistance with research topics and her generosity.