CAMDEN — Ruth Manning Duff, 88, of Camden, died May 1, 2013, at Knox Center For Long Term Care. Born in Rockland Jan. 12, 1925, she was the daughter of Raymond and Hazel (Nash) Manning.

Ruth was a 1943 graduate of Camden High School. She married John Duff in 1946. They lived on Masonic Street in Rockland for many years before moving to South Thomaston. John died in 1992 and Ruth moved to Camden.

Ruth's employment included Rockland District High School, where she worked as the audio video technician. Her office became the hangout for some students before, during and after school as she was always willing to talk. The class of 1974 dedicated their yearbook to Mrs. Duff, also known as "Aunt Ruth," as she was affectionately known. Though she never had any children of her own, she was loved and respected by many children and teens. She later was employed at the Camden-Rockland Water Company for several years.

Ruth always loved to go dancing and was the life of any gathering or party. She had been the close companion of Frank Rankin since July 4, 1998, when he invited her to go to a dance. She enjoyed going to work with Frank at Rankin's Hardware, where customers and employees could look forward to receiving a warm greeting and a hug from Ruth. They also went on several cruises to the Caribbean and to the Panama Canal.

Ruth was predeceased by her husband; a sister, Dot Manning; and two brothers, Thomas and Robert Manning.

Surviving is her companion, Frank W. Rankin of Camden, and his family; a sister, Gloria Manning of Andrews, S.C.; two sisters-in-law, Estelle Manning of Camden and Mary Ellen Manning of Portland; and many nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held Sunday, May 5, from 3 to 5 p.m. at Long Funeral Home, 9 Mountain St. in Camden. A graveside service will be held Monday, May 6, at 3 p.m. at Mountain View Cemetery in Camden.

Memorial donations may be made to the PAWS, P.O. Box 709, Rockport, ME 04841.

Condolences, photos and memories may be shared with Ruth's family by visiting her book of memories at www.longfuneralhomecamden.com.