Ruth P. Tonkins

RUTH NAOMI PALMER TONKINS, the only daughter of the late Clarence M. and Ada (Brown) Palmer and wife of the late William 1. Tonkins (Bill), departed this life on Thursday, September 4,2014, after suffering with health issues for several years. Ruth was born October 18, 1921, in Augusta, Georgia, the sixth of nine children. She was very proud of her family, especially her brothers. Six brothers preceded her in death: Clarence, Edgar, Douglas, Joseph, Coleridge, and Robert. She moved with the family at an early age to Durham, North Carolina where she received her early education in the public schools. In 1938 she moved to Baltimore, Maryland to live with her grandmother and aunt where she completed her education. She graduated from Douglass High School in February, 1941 (the last February graduating class) and Coppin Teachers College in 1945. Later Ruth attended New York University and Morgan State College where she earned a Masters of Education. Ruth began her teaching career at school #140 in September of 1945. She continued teaching grades 1 thru 3 at schools #142 and #135 until becoming a senior teacher at schools #122 and #19. Ruth also held the positions of summer school teacher and summer school principal. After 31 years in education, she retired to enjoy and help raise her two grandsons, Phillip and Kevin. Ruth attended AME Zion Methodist Church in Durham as a child, where her father was the choir director and Treasurer. Upon her move to Baltimore, she joined Bethel A.M.E. Methodist Church. Ruth later became a member of John Wesley Methodist Church until she became ill and could not attend. She would on occasion worship at Macedonia Baptist Church with her husband who was a devoted member. Ruth met the late William 1. Tonkins (Bill), the love of her life, at Douglass High School. They were married on August 7, 1946 and enjoyed Sixty-four years together. From this union a son was born, William Phillip Tonkins (Phil). Ruth enjoyed spending time spent with her family and close friends. She was known as the family historian because she knew all the facts and information about the family. Ruth greatly enjoyed the Palmer-Brown family reunions held every two years and marveled at how fast the children were growing up. She was a dedicated member of the Bavlids and Cardigans Inc., social organizations formed by friends in support of each other during their child rearing age. The groups also made donations to various charities, provided food for needy children, and provided scholarship opportunities for students. Ruth was also an active member of the Westview Community Association. As an avid Raven's football fan, Ruth wore her football jersey and watched their games faithfully. Ruth was easy going, caring, helpful to others and had a wonderful sense of humor. She was a great wife, loving mother, grandmother, mother-in-law, sister, sister-in-law, aunt and friend to many. Her many hobbies were sewing, knitting, crocheting, reading, gardening, and collecting salt and pepper shakers from around the world. Left to honor and cherish her life and legacy are: her devoted son, William "Phil" Tonkins, Sr. (Judy), two grandsons, Dr. Wm. Phillip Tonkins, Jr. and Kevin 1. Tonkins; two brothers, Dr. Warren D. Palmer, Sr. (Laura), Toledo, Ohio, Dr. Elliott B.Palmer, Sr.(Juanita), Raleigh, North Carolina; one brother- in-law, Samuel J. Tonkins (Carole "Patty"); one sister in-law, Evelyn Palmer of Baltimore, Maryland; nieces, nephews, other relatives and special friends.

Tributes

Ruth P. Tonkins

October 18, 1921 - September 4, 2014