Ruth

Ruth, you’re gone

From this earth

And we’ll miss you so

But the memories of you live on

Your words had been written

Your poems sung

Your touch is not to be forgotten

Your influence is felt

One mourns of your passing

And marvels at your blessings

Your life was rich

Your work was dandy

One sings the glory

Of your life fulfilled

You’d not want tears shed

For you’re now at peace

You’d want us to smile

And dance to our heart’s desire

You’d want each of us

To make a happy sound

With an instrument if we would

Or any way we could

To add to the chorus

You must be conducting

Be brave you’d tell us

There’s work to be done

Don’t dwell on sadness

But celebrate what’s fine

We bid you farewell

And heed your advice

We will think of you

Whene’er music is played

Your legacy’s alive

In the Volkert, now and always