Remembering Woodbridge artist and teacher, Ruth Dore

Ruth was born in Belper, Derbyshire, on November 25, 1925, to Francis and Gladys Dore. She was the eldest of two, with her brother William being born in Alfreton.

The family moved around frequently; Francis had been destined to become a miner, but being none too enthusiastic about this, he instead found work as a housing officer in both Derbyshire and London, which was where Ruth spent her teenage years.

Ruth set her sights on a career in teaching from a young age. She studied at Washington Old Hall Training College, and in 1952, she won her teaching certificate from the University of Manchester.

While training, it was observed that Ruth had the ability to lead a full social life – but was also scrupulous about never neglecting her studies. This ability to balance work with recreation stayed with Ruth throughout her career. In the summer holidays, she took delight in travelling to far-flung places, including America, South Africa and Leningrad in Russia.

Ruth Dore on one of her many trips abroad, visiting the United States of America. Image: Family of Ruth Dore (Image: Family of Ruth Dore) Ruth (right) sitting with her close friends, Polly Silver (left) and Bess Sharp (centre). Image: Family of Ruth Dore (Image: Family of Ruth Dore) Ruth (left) pictured with her great friend, Polly Silver. Image: Family of Ruth Dore (Image: Family of Ruth Dore)

For her first teaching post, Ruth taught at an infant school in Peckham, where her flair for drama was appreciated with the spectacular school shows she directed.

Four years later, Ruth swapped London for Episkopi, Cyprus, where she taught the children of British forces stationed there. Here, Ruth made many friends and remained in touch with many colleagues for the rest of her life.

In 1962, Ruth accepted a post at Westville Primary School in London, before moving to Gospel Oak School in 1965. Many of the rich and famous sent their children here, including actor Peter Cook, artist Bill Oddie and comedian Michael Palin.

Years later, after her move to Suffolk, Ruth was at Southwold beach with her brother and sister-in-law, her nephew, Andrew, and his family.

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Walking past the pier, Andrew spotted Michael Palin, who was being filmed. When he relayed this news to his aunt, she immediately went over to say hello. Soon, the pair were reminiscing.

Ruth was, said Andrew, a teacher to the end. She was always very clear in her views and a staunch Labour voter, and enjoyed to engage in debates with others.

Ruth on a trip to Niagara Falls. Image: Family of Ruth Dore (Image: Family of Ruth Dore)

Ruth visiting South Africa. Image: Family of Ruth Dore (Image: Family of Ruth Dore) Ruth pictured during a trip to France. Image: Family of Ruth Dore (Image: Family of Ruth Dore) Ruth pictured during a holiday to Greece. Image: Family of Ruth Dore (Image: Family of Ruth Dore) Ruth Dore visited countries all over Europe. Image: Family of Ruth Dore (Image: Family of Ruth Dore)

After retiring from teaching, Ruth relocated to Woodbridge in 1987. A teaching friend, Polly Silver, had moved down to Orford and the idea of living by the sea appealed to Ruth greatly.

“When she was asked, what was the most life-changing thing you have done, Ruth said that it was buying a cottage in Woodbridge,” said Andrew. Ruth settled in Birkett Road, and she came to love the life she built for herself in our county.

Now having the time to devote creative pursuits, Ruth became a keen painter, settling into the flourishing art community in Woodbridge. She loved to paint landscapes and people, and would sometimes exhibit her work at the open studios.

She also enjoyed keeping herself fit by attending dancing classes, tap dancing being a particular favourite. In her spare time, Ruth also volunteered at her local Oxfam branch in the Thoroughfare.

Since her early teaching days, Ruth had lived with her close friend, Bess Sharp, who she met in Cyprus. Bess’ family owned a house in Lansdowne Road in Notting Hill, and the two friends lived on the upper floor.

After retirement, they would divide their time between Ruth’s home in Woodbridge and Bess’ family in Lytham. 

In her later years, Ruth’s health was not so good. However, she remained positive and was determined to stay in her own home until the very end. 

Ruth died on May 18, aged 98, supported by Katherine, her dear friend and daughter of Polly Silver.

To read more tributes to those we have loved and lost from Suffolk, click here