On behalf of the Consultants in Dental Public Health and CADOs Group in Scotland, we wish to acknowledge the contribution of Ruth to our work in Scotland, particularly in dealing with the most vulnerable groups. As a professional, Ruth was an incredible advocate for the underprivileged members of our society. She was a witty, passionate and engaging personality and her passion and energy will be missed. We started our recent meeting with a minute’s silence to remember Ruth and send our condolences to her family. We will continue to keep Ruth in our memories and her wonderful legacies will live on. Maura Edwards/Jonathan Iloya (co-chairs, CDPH/CADO Group)

Ruth taught me as an undergraduate at Queens and she changed the way I thought about oral health. Seven years later when I was doing my MMedSci she couldn't do enough for me. She was bursting with ideas, full of energy and life. When she moved to Scotland I would still see her frequently at conferences and DPH events, still vivacious. She was always keen to catch up, wanted to know about all of the news from NI dentistry. She was wise too and could see the grand scheme of things. Her opinions were always worth hearing and her advice was invaluable. I will really miss Ruth. Michael Donaldson

Deeply caring, brave, iconoclastic