A candle was lit by Nita Kay Pugh Slaughter
on September 30, 2017 7:35 PM
A candle was lit by David H.
on July 27, 2017 5:27 PM
Message from Betsy Chesney
May 15, 2017 8:13 AM
Mrs. Holmberg ("Mrs. H.") hired my father, George Baker, as a photographer in the 1950s, and he never looked back; he had his whole 40-year career at the newspaper. When he was dying in Memorial Hospital, she visited him and our family, but she didn't look at him; she wanted to remember him the way she had known him "back in the day."
The memorial service for Mrs. Holmberg was appropriate in every way: the music, the photos selected, the remarks, and the stories. Paul Neely's column about her not long after the service reminded me that years ago, I had read a letter to the editor that extolled Mrs. Holmberg for picking up litter on our streets. This is but one small way that her inspiration lives on in my life, not to mention her love and support of the arts, civil rights, and so on. She continues to live on through her family and the many worthwhile causes that she aided.
I am thinking about all of you.
A candle was lit by Erik Gray
on May 9, 2017 11:19 AM
Message from Freeman Doster
May 1, 2017 1:15 PM
Arthur and Lynn, I have many fond memories of being around your family and getting to know your mother-as she was so very accommodating to me when I spent countless nights in your homes on Fleetwood and later Scenic. My most sincere condolences to you all, and I pray for healing during this time of reflection.
Message from Tricia Templeton Gibson
April 25, 2017 9:57 PM
Lynn. Michael,Stephen, and Arthur-
Your mothers"s passing brings back many memories of time spent with all of you. She was a great lady. I send my love and condolences to all of you.
Message from Heather Kaye
April 25, 2017 11:25 AM
Ruth was the first person in the Sultzberger family I met! She was the wind in my sails at the National Zoo. She was always ready with a smile, bright shining eyes, a worthy idea and the most generous spirit..."no" was not in her vocabulary. We shared many wonderful times together over the decades whether it was touring an animal exhibit, slogging thorough a meeting, eating fried spinach in NYC or sharing Thanksgiving dinner she always touched my heart.
She was a pioneer who left an indelible mark on the world and I am thrilled to have known her personally. Lynn, Michael, Stephen, Arthur, Sam and Ben and all the other relatives I know - thank you for sharing her. Ruth will always be treasured in my life.
A candle was lit by Carmia 'Pinkee' Summerrow
on April 25, 2017 5:55 AM
I would like to give my condolences to the entire family of Mrs Holmberg. Mrs Holmberg was a amazing woman. Thank you the family for allowing me the chance to get to know Mrs Holmberg. I definitely enjoyed the time I had spent with her and she will be truly missed..
A candle was lit by Carmia 'Pinkee' Summerrow
on April 25, 2017 5:35 AM
Message from Joe V Williams III
April 24, 2017 7:29 PM
Stephen, Michael, Arthur, and Lynn. I wanted to make it to the service today but could not get free. I have had so many memories of growing up with you and your mom and dad. I still cannot believe we survived so many trips to the doctors and so many wrestling matches in your parents yard.
Your Mother was such an inspiration to our generation. I remember so well John Popham and your mother taking the right stands and publishing their strong beliefs for all to read.
My late father was always overjoyed to visit your parents and hear the stories of world politics. So many good times.
I pray you will keep your mother's smile and outlook in your heart and mind.
See you all down the road of life.
A candle was lit by Joe V Williams III
on April 24, 2017 7:21 PM
Message from Darde Long
April 24, 2017 4:55 PM
I was so sad to hear that Ruth had left us. I have known her for over 30 years, and during that time she was a tremendous mentor to me. Her class and her grace inspired me to try to emulate her, but no one could ever attain that perfect combination of elegance, integrity, and of course leadership. She was a beacon to all women striving to become great leaders, and because of her legacy, that beacon will always burn brightly.
A candle was lit by joy
on April 23, 2017 9:18 PM
Message from Ismahen Kangles
April 23, 2017 9:11 PM
Please accept my sympathy in the loss of Ruth Holmberg. My husband and I were truly fond of her. When he passed she offered tremendous support. She has left quite a legacy. Nevertheless, her kindness, generosity, and her grit will forever remain in the memories and hearts of all who knew her. With deepest sympathy, Ismahen Kangles
Message from Caroline Von Canon
April 23, 2017 1:40 AM
I want to personally tell Michael, Stephen and Arthur how sorry I am about the loss of their mother. Having grown up on Lookout Mountain (along with my sister Lucy and our 3 older siblings) and being friends with some of the Golden boys, I knew your mother "forever" (or at least to my earliest recollection). I believe that Lucy and Stephen were even in a band together for a while. Your mother was a formidable woman and served as someone that I looked up to who showed me that you could have a family and a career and still be successful and respected no matter what your gender,
I would like to express my sincerest condolences to the remainder of Ms. Holmberg's family.
Message from Astrid and MIke Griffin
April 22, 2017 8:23 PM
Lovely recollections, Ruth. We met sharing the arts together, It began with Vahktang and continued from there. So many memories, which binds together both music and Chattanooga. We shall always keep the two, and YOU, together in our hearts.
Astrid and Mike Griffn
Message from Nita Kay Pugh-Slaughter
April 22, 2017 9:36 AM
Chattanooga has known no other greater woman than Ruth Holmberg--she will be greatly missed and respected for years to come. My baby-boomer generation was raised under this woman's wings and she encouraged so many of us in so many aspects, but especially the arts. She was a voice of the young and old alike, and gave of herself freely. Although my politics have changed through the years, my respect for Ms. Holmberg never waivered. She set the example for all of Chattanooga's reknown philanthropists and made Chattanooga the cultural city that it is proud to be today. I, personally, rejoice the life of Ruth Holmberg and her positive influence on the lives she touched.
A candle was lit by Louise Hale Brode
on April 21, 2017 8:08 PM
Message from Theresa Carter,LPN
April 21, 2017 5:11 PM
So sorry to hear about the passing of Miss Ruth. I was lucky enough to be one of her home health nurses via Guardian. She was always so sweet and gracious to me, and she had a wonderful sense of humor. Rest in Peace Miss Ruth, you will be greatly missed.
A candle was lit by Theresa Carter,LPN
on April 21, 2017 5:09 PM
Message from Clayton Putt
April 21, 2017 1:34 PM
I am so sorry for your loss. Many people view death as an enemy and causes pain and sorrow. However the bible gives us hope for the future. Revelations 21 :4 states And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away. This scripture has always given me comfort. Hopefully it will for you as well.
A candle was lit by Kathrandra D. Smith
on April 21, 2017 11:49 AM
Mrs. Holmberg's legacy will continue to influence generations of Chattanoogans long after her passing.
Her strength and courage as a woman who seemed to effortlessly take on untraditional leadership roles inspired women from all walks of life.
Her courageous support of civil rights during a time when that kind of unpopular stance could have cost her advertising dollars was remarkable.
Her sense of fairness, humility, and approachability was truly unique.
All these qualities make her eligible to be the first Jewish Saint in my book.
(LOL) Let's call the Pope and get to work on this now!
She truly lived according to the words of the gospel song, IF I CAN HELP SOMEBODY:
If I can help somebody
As I travel along
If I can help somebody
In a word or a song
If I can help somebody
From doing wrong
Then my living shall not be in vain
No my living shall not be in vain
No my living shall not be in vain
If I can help somebody by singing this song
My living shall not be in vain
A candle was lit by Kathrandra Denise and Kathrandra Janiece Smith
on April 21, 2017 11:05 AM
A candle was lit by George and Wade Wright (George Wright Construction)
on April 20, 2017 10:35 PM
Message from Myra J. Rosser
April 20, 2017 9:54 PM
Michael, Stephen, Lynn and Arthur it is with great sadness that I heard about your mom. She was a great lady, friend and boss. Oh what a gracious lady she was. My prayers are with the family during this time-keep the memories -we shall never forget her in Chattanooga. I loved her dearly. Myra Rosser
Message from Margaret (Margie) Hannah
April 20, 2017 7:00 PM
I would like to offer my condolences to the whole family, but especially to Stephen and Michael. Stephen had been my late oldest brother's best friend their last few years in elementary school, although I knew Michael better. I haven't seen Michael since Thanksgiving weekend, 1979, but wish I had the opportunity to see them again some time. A friend I've only met a few times has said that she'll try to pass my condolences along to the family for me, since she'll be at the funeral. Best wishes to all. Margie
A candle was lit by Dianne Linam
on April 20, 2017 3:39 PM
My deepest condolences to you. I had the distinct pleasure to work with Mrs. Holmberg while at the Hunter Museum. She was always gracious and kind. I miss her red pencil on my memos I wrote for her!
A candle was lit by Aundrette Logan and the Chattanooga Choral Society
on April 20, 2017 12:00 PM
Message from Dan Brown
April 20, 2017 11:47 AM
My thoughts and prayers go out to Ruth's family. As the Superintendent of Chickamauga- Chattanooga National Military Park in 1990, I had the great good fortune to work with Ruth on the 100th Anniversary of the Park's establishment. Her quiet leadership and supportive mentoring ensured that the celebration was a resounding success. She was an amazing and talented lady.
Message from Woody and Pookie McLaughlin
April 20, 2017 11:39 AM
Our lives have been enriched by Ruth's warm, gracious and genuine nature and her commitment to her core values.
Message from Teresa Rothberger Spurlock
April 20, 2017 11:31 AM
Lynn and family, I am so sorry for the loss of a great lady. Some of my fondest memories when I was younger were spent with your family. My prayers are with you all. Much love
Message from Rick owens
April 20, 2017 11:28 AM
The family & Chattanooga just lost a great Lady!!!! Chattanooga would not be coming along as it is today, had Mrs. Holmberg not been a major part of its progress!!!! ;-( I loved working for her for 25 yrs. and I'm sure everyone else did also. My condolences to a great family!!!!!
A candle was lit by Rick Owens
on April 20, 2017 11:20 AM
Message from David Z. Walley, Jr.
April 20, 2017 11:15 AM
I am deeply saddened at the loss of my dear friend, Ruth. She was a remarkable person, admired by thousands, and loved by those with whom she was associated. Our families have been close friends for generations. And I thank God for her life and contributions to make this world a better, happier, place. May God bless her four exceptional children and their children during this difficult time. I will cherish her memory, particularly her sense of humor, and kindness and generosity.
David Z. Walley, Jr.
Message from Joy Mullins
April 23, 2017 9:14 PM
My regards for the lady, Ruth Holmberg, for whom I had the utmost respect...please rest in peace!
Message from Nancy Hartis Mueller
April 25, 2017 7:26 PM
I will always remember Mrs. Holmberg for her grace, her dignity, her devotion to positive causes in Chattanooga and her devotion to publishing The Chattanooga Times without fear or favor. The Times gave me my first "real" journalism job as an intern in 1978, taking obit dictation on a manual typewriter. Then, luckily for me, they kept me on when summer ended. My deepest sympathy to Michael-- the only one of her children I know-- and his brothers, sister and the rest of the family.