Ruth Ann Eldridge-Whittaker 1939-2025

Born Oct. 30, 1939, in Hubbard, Ruth was the beloved daughter of George W. McKnight and Elizabeth H. Campbell McKnight.

Ruth spent the first half of her life in Ohio before relocating to South Florida in 1989.

A LIFE OF DETERMINATION AND LEADERSHIP

Ruth was a woman of extraordinary tenacity and drive, embodying the belief that anything is possible with hard work and determination. She was both a mother and a father to her children, raising them with the support of her own mother while working three jobs and attending college to advance their future.

A stellar student, Ruth graduated as valedictorian of Hubbard High School in 1957. She went on to earn her undergraduate degrees magna cum laude from Youngstown State University and cum laude from Kent State University, followed by a Master of Science degree in nursing from the University of Pittsburgh.

Ruth’s passion for nursing and her unwavering commitment to excellence led her to a distinguished career. In Ohio, she rose from registered nurse to chief nursing officer (CNO), achieving numerous milestones along the way. Her dedication to cardiac care was unmatched and she became a pioneer in teaching the Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump (IABP) to other nurses, often driving long distances to ensure her colleagues were properly trained.

In 1989, Ruth made the bold decision to decline an offer from Stanford University to join Broward General Medical Center (BGMC) in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. There, she continued to break barriers, becoming both the first woman and the first nurse CEO of BGMC.

Despite her executive roles, her heart always remained with nursing. She achieved her dream of creating and filling the role of chief nursing officer for all Broward Health facilities, leaving a lasting legacy of leadership, mentorship and advocacy for healthcare professionals at every level.

A LIFE WELL LIVED

Ruth retired at the age of 60, embarking on a new chapter filled with adventure and love.

She married Dr. Arthur Whittaker, and together they traveled the world, enjoyed fine dining, attended concerts and events, and spent cherished moments with their blended family.

The couple embraced life to the fullest, from boating and skiing to sporting clay shooting and raising their beloved German shepherd.

Ruth will be deeply missed by her husband, Arthur V. Whittaker MD, whom she married Jan. 10, 2004. She is survived by her daughters, Patricia (Ken) Warner of Coral Springs, Florida, and Cynthia Eldridge of Ocala, Florida; her grandchildren, Taylor Warner and Ken (Jessica) Warner Jr.; and several nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her stepdaughters, Lani Ann (Nick) Davakis of Columbus, Alisa (Kevin) Breisacher of Cleveland, BeaJaye Whittaker of San Diego, California; and several stepgrandchildren.

She was predeceased by her parents, and siblings, George W. McKnight II and Dorothy E. Myers.

A LASTING LEGACY

Ruth’s dedication to nursing leadership continues through memorial donations to the Florida Organization for Nursing Leadership (FONL). Contributions can be made to FONL, 7380 W. Sand Lake Road, Ste. 500, Orlando, FL 32819, to fund scholarships for aspiring nurse leaders in Florida.

We celebrate the life and legacy of Ruth Ann Eldridge-Whittaker, an extraordinary woman who broke barriers, inspired countless individuals and exemplified excellence in every endeavor.

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