A SPECIAL BENCH FOR RUTH'S 100th BIRTHDAY IN DAYTON

Ruth Bandy Crane will be 100 on January 1, 2026, and to celebrate this incredible milestone, we would like to place a 6-foot Contour Tribute Bench in Pendergrass Park (Blue Cross Blue Shield Wellness Park), complete with a 4"x6" plaque, in her honor. Please help us to make this goal happen so we can get the bench ordered and The City of Dayton Parks and Recreation can install it before Springtime. This park location (see picture) is a special spot where Ruth's daughter, Dianne, and others often take her to get fresh air and watch the children play.

A bench at this park is such a fitting tribute to Ruth, who was born in Dayton and has never left. She and her husband Virgil of 67 years (now deceased) raised their beautiful family here, and she has always been active in the community and involved in civic work. She and her husband organized and donated meals for over 25 years for the Ronald McDonald House, a charity dear to their hearts, that provides comfort, care, and support for families with children who are sick around the world. In addition, Ruth has always enjoyed and been involved in both local and State Politics. She was active with the Home Demonstration Club, Sunset Garden Club, and Graysville Church of God, where she is currently their oldest active member.

Read about Pendergrass Park here: https://www.daytontn.net/residents/pendergrass_park.php

The City of Dayton requires the bench to match the existing bench in that park. The bench costs $1,372, and shipping from the company in Iowa is $686. We have been working with the Parks and Recreation Department. Funds raised for the bench will be given to the City of Dayton so they may order and install upon delivery.

We are excited to leave a lasting legacy and help create more of a positive impact on the lives of those who will use the park, in honor of Ruth Bandy Crane!