Ruth Whitlock

Ruth Whitlock, age 79, passed away peacefully with her children by her side at her home in Shepherdstown, on Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2017.

Born in Berlin, Germany, Ruth was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Capt. Richard “Dick” Whitlock, whom she met while working as a dental hygienist at the US Army base in Nuremberg, Germany. Her life, full of adventure and love, was characterized by her effervescent spirit and sense of humor.

She is survived by son Jeff Whitlock of Reading, Pennsylvania, daughter Jennifer Bean and her husband Scott of Shepherdstown, grandchildren Collin and Ella Whitlock, granddaughter Megan Burdi and her husband Brian of Shepherdstown, and her sister Brigitta Brandt of Melbourne, Florida, along with several nieces and nephews.

Ruth was a wonderful mother, Oma, and devoted officer’s wife. She loved to travel, making memories and friends wherever she roamed. She shared countless stories of her adventures with Dick RVing across the US, exploring Europe, and most recently, traveling to Cuba. Over her lifetime she visited all but one of the National Parks. She especially enjoyed the snowbird winters she and Dick spent with their “Key West family” of Navy retirees.

Ruth will be dearly missed by her family and good friends near and far. She will be interred with her husband in a private service at Arlington National Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to the National Park Foundation or Hospice of the Panhandle.