GODDARD: Elizabeth Ruth Ann
Posted By On July 28, 2026 @ 12:00 AM In Goderich, Obituary | 19 Comments
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Elizabeth RuthAnn Goddard (nee Gauley) on July 28, 2026, in her 87th year. Though saying goodbye is incredibly difficult, Ruth was surrounded by those she held dear, and her loved ones found comfort in holding her hand while sharing their love of her.
Ruth was predeceased by the love of her life and devoted husband, Donald James Goddard.
She leaves behind a family who will forever cherish her love and the countless memories she was so central to. She will be deeply missed by her daughters, Patricia Lynn (Wayne) Nicholson and Barbara Elizabeth (David) Sproul. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Dawn (Sean), Chris (Jenessa), Jenni, Jason (Emily), Brad (Jessica), Cody (Lynsey), Donny, Elizabeth, and Brandon. Her greatest joy continued through her great-grandchildren, Kaitlyn (Seth), Liam, Madi, Greyson, Knox, Liam and Evan each of whom held a special place in her heart. Proud and loving great-grandmother of her newest great-grandchild, Kade, whose arrival the day after Ruth’s passing brings a beautiful reminder of her continuing legacy.
Ruth is also lovingly remembered by her sister, Barbara Young, as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family. Ruth was predeceased by her beloved sons, Robert John Goddard and William James Goddard and her brothers ; John Gauley and Robert Gauley ; as well as many beloved extended family and friends.
Ruth never met a stranger. A true social butterfly, she had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel welcome, valued, and loved. Whether gathering around her table for holidays, hosting family events, or simply sharing a cup of coffee and conversation, she found her greatest happiness in bringing people together.
In her younger years, Ruth and Don enjoyed travelling together, making memories that she cherished and shared through stories for years to come. She also found great joy in tending to her beautiful gardens, where she took pride in creating colourful spaces that reflected her caring and nurturing spirit. Along with her love of gardening, Ruth treasured her collections of porcelain dolls and cardinals, each one carefully chosen and lovingly displayed. She had a beautiful smile, a contagious laugh, and a kind heart that made everyone around her feel special. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering love for her family and friends were the hallmarks of a life well lived.
Ruth’s greatest legacy was never the things she collected or the places she travelled—it was the people she loved. She taught us that family is built around a kitchen table, that everyone deserves to feel welcome, and that life’s greatest moments are those shared with the people we love. She and Don built a home where everyone belonged, laughter came easily, and no one ever left without feeling cared for.
The family would like to express particular gratitude to Janet Arthur (niece), Sharon Anderson (cousin) and Ruth’s dear friends Sharon, Jamie, Megan, and Rena, whose friendship brought her great joy and enjoyment to her every day.
While our hearts are broken by her absence, we find comfort in knowing her love lives on in the family she nurtured, the traditions she created, and the countless memories she leaves behind. We are forever grateful for every hug, every laugh, every story, and every lesson she shared with us. Though she will be deeply missed, she will remain eternally loved, forever remembered, and will always a part of us.
A family and close friend’s visitation will be held on Friday July 31st, 2026 at McCallum & Palla Funeral Home from 11:45am-12:45pm followed by a graveside service at Maitland Cemetery at 1pm. Ruth’s family will welcome guests to join in celebrating her life at the Comfort Inn & Suites, (conference room), 135 Gibbons Street, Goderich, from 2:00-4:00pm.
Condolences for the family of “GODDARD: Elizabeth Ruth Ann”
Deepest Sympathies to all of Ruth’s family and friends . She was always very kind and caring may she RIP
My deepest condolences at this time of loss your loved mother , grandmother and friend . May she rest in peace.
Sincere thoughts and prayers.
Phyllis
to the family of Ruth
She fought a long hard fight and now soars with the angels. Live with the memories of her kindness and happiness and it will help you through this tough time.
Our thoughts are with you and know that all your good memories will help you through this most difficult time and remember, your Mom is at peace now.
My deepest condolences to the entire family.
It was a true privilege to know and care for Ruth. I will always remember her kindness, strength, and the warmth she brought to those around her. She touched many lives, including mine, and I feel grateful to have been a part of her journey.
I hope you find comfort in the beautiful memories you shared and in knowing how deeply she was loved and appreciated. May those memories bring you strength and peace in the days ahead.
Keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. May she rest in eternal peace.
I will miss you Ruth.
My condolences on the passing of Ruth. I spent great many years around the family, she always made me feel welcome . She had a special way !
Jim,Denise and Family
My Condolences to Lynn and Family. It has been a long journey for your Mother and family.
Sending our heartfelt condolences, along with warm hugs and caring thoughts from Niagara. May you find peace and comfort in the stories shared, strength in the love that surrounds you, and lasting joy in the wonderful memories you will always cherish.
Love Silvano, Steven, Tanya and Family
Aunt Ruth Ann was a strong wonderful woman, and a favourite Aunt to me, despite the infrequent contact. She always had kind words and a smile for me. I know she will be sorely missed by her close family, and I will never forget her. My heart goes out to Lynn and Barb and the family.
I have known Ruth Ann since I was a little girl living on Cambridge Street. She and her mom Dorothy were our friends & neighbours back then. She was always happy to see me & full of conversation no matter where or when I met up with her while growing up. She became a resident of Maitland Manor after my mom moved there & we had some nice visits. She gave me a great comforting hug when my mom died & I’d like to pass on a great comforting hug to her family. I know you will miss her but her memory will always be imprinted on your hearts. Rest in peace dear Ruth Ann.
My condolences to all of Ruth’s family and friends!! I have known her since public school and have always enjoyed her company which we had lots of through the years!!! Cherish your memories!!! Rest easy Ruth!!!
Lynn and Barb I would like to offer my condolences in the loss of your Mom. It doesn’t matter how long you have them its never long enough. May she soar with the angels and may she be your guardian angel!!! Hugs to all!
Dear family – Ruth was special to know and remember –
Special thoughts to each of you –
With sympathy – Cecelia Denomme
So sorry for your loss. Sympathies to the family. Cherish the memories and the years you had with her.
Lynn, Wayne and family. My condolences to your family
What a beautiful tribute to Ruth Ann–so clearly the centre of love in your family, so cherished, and so deeply missed.
Ruth Ann was my cousin, our fathers were brothers, but because she was older she didn’t exactly feel like a cousin to me. But there was a particular time in the past when she truly felt like a very kind and loving friend. When you speak of warm welcomes, and comforting kitchen table chats around a cup of coffee, those lovely memories come alive for me, and I feel very grateful for having known Ruth Ann. My deepest sympathies to all the family.
I have known Ruth Anne since I was a child as my Mother was friends with her Mother. My brother Fred Jewell was friends with Bill. Sincere Sympathy at this difficult time . The Jewells
Deepest sympathy on the loss of your mom.
She was a lovely lady.
Treasure your memories
My condolences on the loss of your Mother.
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I will miss you so much. You we’re such a great friend and lady. Barb and Lynn you had such a wonderful mom.