HILDA AMMONS PRUETT
March 9, 1919 ~ September 2, 2013

On the cold winter day of March 9,1919, Hilda Ammons was born in Waynesville, North Carolina. The family story is that neither of her parents expected her to live because she was so tiny at birth she barely filled her father's hands. Her parents, Leon and Bertha Medford Ammons were to be amazed by her resilience, strength, and determination as the time passed.

Hilda was the second of 13 children. Of these children only 4 remain: Dora Rhinehart, Vancouver, Washington, Patricia Lawson, Vancouver, Washington, Eliza Melton, Camas, Washington, and Jack Ammons, Bevard, North Carolina.

Hilda married Charles L. Pruett on April 12th, 1940. Charles and Hilda move to Washington with their four children in the 1950's.

Hilda went to work in the office of the Weaving Department of the Pendleton Woolen Mills in Washougal, Washington and continued working there for over 30 years.

Hilda became a widow at the age of 53 and was to remain single. She loved sharing her life with her family which was to eventually grow to four children, 15 grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren. Every time a new child came into the family, she was thrilled.

A common description of Hilda was that she was a gracious southern lady who was always kind and willing to assist anyone who needed help. She loved to cook and desserts were her specialty.

After retiring she spent much of her time as an active volunteer. Next to her family, her church was the great love of her life. She was a Charter Member of the LaCamas Heights Baptist Church in Camas, Washington. She was affectionately known as "Miss Hilda" by many who came into contact with her as a teacher of Christian education over many decades. She also served on many committees over the years.

Hilda volunteered for the Camas-Washougal Treasure House in Camas, Washington as a cashier until she was 90 years old. She often said it was a reason for her to "get up and get going."

Passing away at home in Washougal, Washougal in the early hours of September 2, 2013, Hilda left this world in the same way in which she lived; quietly, without ever complaining.

The children who remain to celebrate the blessing of having had a mother who never failed to show unconditional love and steadfast support are: Sam Pruett, Washougal, Washington, Walt and Ann Campbell, Stevenson, Washington, David and Catherine Pruett, Vancouver, Washington, and Perry and Kate Pruett, Orcas Island, Washington.

A Celebration of Life will be held at LaCamas Heights Baptist Church on Sunday, September 15, 2013 in Camas, Washington.

Published in The Columbian, Vancouver, Washington on September 10, 2013