Dr. Ruth H. Heckman, 70, of Lake Placid went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday morning, May 28, 2022 at her residence. Ruth was born on June 4, 1951 in Decatur, Illinois and was the daughter of Jana (Williams) and John Hatfield. Ruth was a graduate of the Illinois State University where she received her Bachelors degree in Education . A long time resident of Highlands County , she worked in the tri-county area (Okeechobee, DeSoto, Highlands) for 40 plus years . Ruth was a member of the Memorial United Methodist Church in Lake Placid. Ruth was an avid reader who enjoyed a great novel, all water sports inclu ding water skiing, knee boarding and tubing. She loved to be with here family and friends anytime they all could get together. She is preceded in death by her parents Jana and John Hatfield , sister; Janet Farkas (Joe) and a brother; David Hatfield . Ruth is survived by her loving husband of 28 years Darrell, son; Zachery , sisters; Nancy Ratts (Richard), Carolyn Bragg (Rick), a host of nieces and nephews as well as grand nieces and nephews . A service to celebrate Ruth's l ife will be held at the First Presbyterian Church Lake Placid Genius Center on Thursday June 30th, Dr. Ruth Heckman's Celebration of life will take place at the Genesis Center located at 218 Belleview St. located in Lake Placid, FL. The Celebration will start at 1:00 P.M.. The attire for the event is casual athletic dress. Please represent your favorite athletic team(s) for this event. A meal will be provided.