With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Gladys Ruth Crawford (née Foster), aged 91, of Hillier, Ontario. Ruth passed away peacefully on May 26th, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and remarkable accomplishments. Born on June 15th, 1934, at home on Cold Creek Road in Hillier, Ruth began her teaching career in 1953 with the Toronto Board of Education, where she taught Grade 1 at Clinton Street Public School for six years.
In the early 1980s, after raising her family, Ruth returned to the workforce and worked on the Precious Metals floor at the Bank of Nova Scotia’s head office.
Ruth married Douglas A. Crawford on October 10, 1953. Together, they embraced a life of adventure, moving frequently as Doug advanced in his banking career. Their journey took them to Halifax and Chester, Nova Scotia; Markham; Montego Bay, Jamaica; Peterborough; Etobicoke; London; and back to Toronto. After Doug’s retirement, they lovingly restored the old Foster family farmhouse in Hillier. Following Doug’s passing in 2001, Ruth relocated to Wellington.
Years later, Ruth reconnected with Peter H. Naylor, whom she had first met as a teenager while working at a summer hotel in Presqu’ile. Their paths crossed again much later in life, leading to a cherished partnership until Peter’s passing in 2018. Ruth later settled in Picton.
Ruth’s interests reflected her vibrant spirit. She cultivated beautiful gardens at every home, earned her private pilot license in 1970, and was a founding member of the Anahata Drumming Group in Picton. She was deeply involved in her community, supporting Friends of the Wellington Library and Friends of the Wellington Museum, which housed the Douglas A. Crawford Canning Collection. She also was a lifelong member and served on the local executive of the Federated Women’s Institute of Ontario.
Ruth was predeceased by her parents, Sherman and Eva Foster; her beloved husband, Douglas A. Crawford; and her dear partner, Peter H. Naylor. She will be deeply missed by her siblings: Edith Cairns (the late Alfred), Richard Foster (Lorraine), and Theodore Foster (the late Joan).
She leaves behind her children: Catherine Crawford (Edgar Ramirez), Valerie Crawford (Paul Wong), and Brock Crawford (Lisa); her five grandchildren: Laura Crawford (David Scalise), Gabriel Ramirez, Stephanie Wong, Nigel Ramirez, and Alexander Wong; her two great grandchildren: Beau and Briella Scalise; and countless friends and community members whose lives she touched.
Ruth will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, boundless curiosity, and dedication to family, friends, and community. A Celebration of Ruth’s life will be held on July 19th, 2026, at 1:30pm at The Andrew in Picton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to
Hospice Prince Edward, Picton.
Arrangements in the care of the Ainsworth Funeral Home, 288 Noxon Avenue, Wellington
Online condolences may be shared at www.ainsworthfuneralhome.com