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Janet Ruth Dugdale, a woman of remarkable accomplishments, unwavering faith and immeasurable love for her family, passed away peacefully at the age of 75, on Monday, August 17, 2026, at the Hospice in Little Current, Manitoulin Island, Ontario, surrounded by those she loved. Born and raised in Lanark, Ontario, in the family homestead affectionately known as ‘the House on the Hill,’ from an early age Ruth developed a lifelong love of reading and music, a deep commitment to her church, and a strong sense of community involvement that remained with her throughout her life. Ruth graduated from Macdonald College in Montreal with a degree in education and followed her passion for teaching to Quebec’s Gaspé Coast, where she met her first husband, William Court. Together they raised two sons and made cherished homes in New Carlisle, Hope Town and Paspébiac. A dedicated educator, Ruth spent many years shaping young minds at New Carlisle High School before becoming Principal of Shigawake-Port Daniel School. Former students remember her as a teacher and leader who genuinely cared, bringing a calm presence, steady guidance and a love of storytelling to her classrooms. Outside of her career, Ruth found joy in simple pleasures and strong friendships. She particularly loved playing cards and shared countless hours of laughter around the card table.  Ruth was a talented organist playing at many of the churches she attended. In retirement, she enjoyed travelling the world with her dear sister Anne and many friends. In her later years, Ruth’s greatest pride and joy were her four granddaughters. She found love and companionship again, sharing eight wonderful years of marriage with her devoted husband, James (Jim) Wilkin. Together they enjoyed travelling, spending time with friends and creating lasting memories with the Wilkin family on Manitoulin Island. Ruth was predeceased by her parents, Arthur and Jean (nee Avery); her brother, David Dugdale; and her sister, Anne MacWhirter (née Dugdale). She will be forever loved and remembered by her husband, Jim Wilkin; her sons, Arden (Haley) and Aaron (Nicole); her cherished granddaughters, Macy, Hannah, Emma and Tessa; her brother, Bob (Gayle); as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, former students and dear friends whose lives she touched over the years. A Celebration of Ruth’s Life will take place at Little Current United Church (5 Robinson Street, Little Current) on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 11 am. Visitation and condolences will begin at 10 am, providing family and friends an opportunity to share memories and pay their respects. A luncheon will be held following the service. The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the nurses, physicians and hospice staff in Little Current, the medical teams in Sudbury, and the ALS care team in Ottawa for their exceptional compassion, care and support. In keeping with Ruth’s wishes, memorial donations may be made to the ALS Society of Canada or to a charity of your choice. Professional arrangements have been entrusted to Island Funeral Home in Little Current.