Ruth Ann Fountain

Ruth Ann Fountain was born 96 years ago, the fifth of eight children, into the loving family of Martha and Charles Cook in Concord, NC. They were of moderate means and her childhood was similar to many of that era. She witnessed many acts of kindness, from her parents to others, which set her on a lifelong path of loving care. 

She graduated from Concord High School and went on to graduate from Emory Nursing School as a registered nurse in 1948. She became head nurse of the surgical floor at Emory Hospital and was the ping-pong champion of the Emory intramural league. There she met her husband of 68 years, Dr. T. Gray Fountain. They began their courtship going to the New York Metropolitan Opera and throughout their lives, they enjoyed music and their meaningful friendships with people they met during their time at Emory. 

In 1954, Ruth and Gray moved to Albany with their baby daughter, Dellen, to establish Gray’s surgical practice. They were soon blessed by daughters, Toy and Juby. Ruth focused on being a loving, supportive wife and mother to her family. 

Ruth was a lifelong volunteer, gardener, traveler, student and lover of art and nature. She worked for many causes during her long and full life including Habitat for Humanity, Friendship Force, Girl Scouts, Red Cross, Whiz Kids, Father’s Kitchen, the Flower Ministry of First Baptist Church, the Albany Museum of Art, Symphony Albany and Theater Albany.

As suggested by her maiden name, Ruth could cook! She poured out her love to her family and community through her delicious food. She hosted visitors from around the world. She took food to those experiencing illness or loss.

Ruth was a political activist and a member of Jimmy Carter’s Peanut Brigade. She worked diligently for justice for all by supporting individuals and groups that address these issues. For many years, she regularly played bridge, was in a book group and traveled to see opera. She completed a four year Education for the Ministry through the Episcopal Church. She was a Master Gardener and a wildflower expert. She enjoyed both working in her garden and walking in the woods identifying plants and flowers. She, with her family, backpacked through much of the southern Appalachian Trail.

Ruth was a reservoir of strength, generosity and compassion as a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, community member and human. She and her creative, positive spirit will be greatly missed. 

Ruth is survived by three daughters and sons-in-law, Dellen and Blain Lyall, Toy Fountain and Jack Maull, Juby and Leonard Phillips. She has six loving grandchildren, Jennifer Lyall Hatcher; Katy Lyall Hunt; Thomas, Peg and Mary Grace Maull; Kate Phillips Colby and nine great grandchildren. 

The Fountain family sincerely appreciates the kind and faithful care given to her by Andrea Davis.

A Memorial Service will take place at St Patrick’s Episcopal Church 4800 Old Dawson Rd, Albany, GA 31721 at 11AM Tuesday December 17, 2024 with visitation at 10 AM. 

Memorial blessings may be made to: Albany Rescue Mission, https://www.albanyrescuemission.org/ 604 North Monroe St, Albany GA. 31701The Women’s Ministry of The Anchorage,https://www.anchorageofalbany.org/ 162 Hampton Lane, Leesburg GA 31763 The charity of your choice.