Anna Ruth (Sasser) Garrison, born June 17, 1939 in Albany, Georgia, died June 30, 2024. Ruth planned every detail of her transition at her home on Lake Iamonia, Cardinal Cove. She loved nature, the canopy of moss-covered cypress trees, the silence – the gentle rustle of wings. The setting surrounded Ruth perfectly. She died in her grandchildren's bedroom, a room she had decorated decades ago and where she spent hours reading and playing with the children. It was her happy place. Ruth was a beautiful Southerner who cherished her family, excelled as a teacher, and served as a spiritual guide to many. She moved through the world with grace that was reflected in her actions, her speech, and her written word. Ruth taught English and theater at Lincoln High School, and English at Rickards (IB program) and Tallahassee Community College. Her students were fortunate to remember her brilliance, compassion and dedication. In later years, Ruth became a yoga and meditation teacher and influenced her adult students, always giving generously of herself.

She leaves behind her loving husband of 66 years, William “Bill” Garrison; three sisters: Martha Joiner, Claire Banister and Bobbi Livingston; her brother Roff Sasser III; her three sons: Buddy (Debby) Garrison, Mike (Cheryl) Garrison and Steve (Laura) Garrison; her grandchildren: Diane (Daniel) Langston, Carrow (Josh) Lamb, Michael (Laurel) Garrison, Annalyn Garrison, Evelyn Garrison and Bin Garrison; and her great-grandchildren: Gemma & Travis Langston and Charlie Lamb. She also leaves behind a loving community of friends and family. Ruth's parents, Charlye Ruth and Roff Hinton Sasser Jr., as well as her sister-in-law Paulette Sasser and brother-in-law Hewett Joiner predeceased her. Her detailed obituary will be posted on the Beggs Funeral Home website. A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, July 11, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tallahassee.