Keen gardener, grower and plant lover, Ruth Irving, of Al Ru Farm in South Australia died last week. We share this tribute from the Al Ru Farm Facebook site.
It’s with heavy hearts that we share the passing of the beautiful and courageous Ruth Irving – lovingly known to many as the ‘Ru’ of Al Ru Farm.
Ruth was not only the soul of Al Ru but a beacon of warmth, wisdom, and strength in our lives. Her presence was magnetic, whether you caught her in the garden for a quick chat, were welcomed into her home for a warm meal, or simply listened to her share her thoughts on life, nature, or design, Ruth made you feel seen, valued, and inspired.
Ruth poured her heart into everything she did, especially Al Ru, which was not just her home but her canvas, her sanctuary, and the living embodiment of her creativity. She was a whirlwind of passion, always dreaming, planting, building, and nurturing, not just plants, but the people around her too.
As we mourn her loss, we also honour her life by continuing the work she so fiercely loved. In Ruth’s own words, “It’s not the closing of a chapter, it’s the beginning of something extraordinary.” We will carry her vision forward with the same heart, hope, and dedication she exemplified every day. Her legacy will continue here at Al Ru, to forever grow and bring joy to more people.
Ruth, thank you for everything. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
The Open Garden on September 21 (10-4) will be a heartfelt celebration of the beautiful gardens she lovingly created and the remarkable life she lived.
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Al Ru Farm, which has long been a popular wedding venue, is at 1016 One Tree Hill Road, One Tree Hill, South Australia.
