Elizabeth “Beth” Ruyle-Hullinger was born in Atlanta, Georgia. She was adopted at birth by Daniel and Mae Coley Smith of Covington, Georgia, then raised in St. Petersburg and Sarasota, Florida. She attended St. Petersburg Junior College and then the University of Florida, graduating in 1968.


She married Richard Ruyle and moved to Atlanta. Her daughter Leigh Ann was born and they divorced soon after. Beth trained as a teacher, then worked for the Center for Disease Control and the Atlanta Regional Commission, where she helped plan programs that substantially improved the metropolitan region. In 1975, she proudly earned her Masters in Public Administration at the University of Georgia, making her a pioneer of the feminist movement. She is also a Georgia Dawg, a Florida Gator, and a scorpion by birthdate.


Moving to Chicagoland in 1978, Beth took the job as Executive Director of the South Suburban Mayors and Managers Association (SSMMA), an organization of forty municipalities south of Chicago.  She conceived and implemented numerous plans and strategies that improved the south suburbs as well as the Chicago metropolitan region. Her numerous projects included flood control, transportation improvements, drug enforcement, purchase programs, insuring emergency services, and the proposed third Chicago metropolitan airport. She worked over twenty-two years for SSMMA and made it a leading governmental organization.  She was honored with a Congressional Resolution, as State of Illinois Resolution, and resolutions by her suburban governments. She was chosen one of Chicago's 100 most influential women in Crain's Chicago Business.


During this time, she met and married her husband, Craig Hullinger, a city planner who shared her goals of good governance, city improvement and love of international travel. Craig brought two sons, Clint and Bret, to the family.


Beth then became a Financial Advisor for Ehlers Incorporated.  She participated in numerous urban redevelopment efforts, providing municipalities with tax increment financing.


Moving to Peoria, Illinois, Beth and Craig formed Ruyle-Hullinger and Associates, a consulting practice specializing in city planning, urban redevelopment and tax increment financing to a number of Illinois municipalities.


Beth and Craig retired to Sarasota, Florida.  Beth was elected as President of the Sarasota Sister Cities Association, serving several terms, and led exchanges with sister cities Vladimir, Russia; Perpignon, France; Tel Mond, Israel; Merida, Mexico; Rapperswil-Jona, Switzerland; Busseto, Italy; Dunfermline, Scotland; and Xiamen, China. She also served on the Board of the Sarasota Chapter of Military Officers.


Beth is survived by her husband Craig Hullinger, daughter Leigh Ann Masen, son Bret Hullinger, sisters Serena Windham and Gordenia Murdoch, sisters-in-law Anne Hullinger and Barbara Hullinger, brother-in-law Scott Hullinger, nephews and nieces Derek, Amber, Christy, Eric, Maddie, Krystina, Alex, and Shane.


Services are private. She will be buried at the Sarasota National Cemetery, https://www.cem.va.gov/cems/nchp/sarasota.asp.


If you wish you can donate to your favorite charity in her name.



Craig, We are so sorry to hear of Beth’s passing. We miss you and remember her fondly. J, Patti and Kate Gomez - HarperHill Townhome Association
Patti Gomez
_______

What a wonderful human being!
Suzanne Waxman
_________

Beth Ruyle was a dedicated professional, who understood the dynamics of local government at the suburban level. She provided Leadership in the Chicago's Suburbs South of the City. I was honored to work with her for over 15 years.
Joe Martin
___________

Thank you Leigh Ann,  We loved your Mother and we are very thankful we spent a few days with her in Monterey in July.  She is dearly missed and will forever be in our hearts.  

We will see you in December.

Ann and Tim Gagen

________

Hi Leigh Ann - I am sorry that I will not be able to attend.  I always enjoyed my visits with Beth. She was a very special woman and I enjoyed knowing her and caring for her.  
My sincere condolences to you and your family.  

Dr. Purser
________

Dear Craig, I was saddened to learn of Beth's passing.  I sent a Sympathy Card but it was returned unable to forward.  I sent it to the last corrected address I had for you in LWR>.

Beth was such an accomplished woman.   I know how much you will miss your partner in life.   You're in my thoughts and prayers.

Mary G Collins

_________

Your first October in a very long time without her.  So sorry.  Hope you're weathering it well.
Please let me know if I may be of assistance on the homefront or otherwise.

Craig, it's hard to imagine her brilliant glow going out--we'll all miss Beth's exquisite radiance.  Andandand ...

Grateful she had you to see her through the challenges and share the good times!
May the many magnificent memories and great pics of you two help console you now and in the days to come.

I will see you in early December if not before my friend.

good energies and love,

Rick  Culpepper

_________

Dear Craig,

Thank you so much! Her passing is such a loss, especially and obviously to you. I'm so sorry that this happened. I will see you at the celebration.

Warm regards,

Dave Downer

_________

Sandy just let me know you lost your Beth Sep 30. I am so very sorry for your loss. I pray for the repose of her soul and for your consolation. She also tells me you may be coming back to Illinois. Maybe we can get together & diagram sentences on the blackboard, if there's room.

Your old friend,
Sunny Bob

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord,
and let your perpetual light shine on her,
and may her soul 
and all the souls of the faithful departed,
rest in peace. 

_______________

Hello Craig,
I have been thinking about you and about Beth. Grieving for a spouse is difficult and painful.
I hope you find something that will make you feel some peace in your heart. 

The Highland Games have returned to be held at Robarts Arena again. Thank heaven!
Had it been Palmetto I would have passed, but being it is again in the place I have been setting up and running the booth for 20+++ years for various volunteer organizations, I will do it for SCAS, maybe my last time, I tire easier now, who knows. I like the Games in Sarasota. Hope you are willing to give me a hand, like you always did. 

I have also started to investigate about organizing a trip to Scotland in August. Different destinations including Glasgow and further up north the scenic Highlands, maybe one of the islands. I hope to get a nice group together, maybe Ray and other old timers. 

Take care Craig. Let me know how you are doing.


Pauline Mitchell
___________

Hi Craig,

I think of Beth everyday.
Would love to talk with you sometime.
Thanks,

Gordenia

___________


I am so sorry about the passing of Beth earlier this month. She was especially nice to me! I mailed you a card, but it was returned for insufficient address. I would like to resend the card to you. Please give me your address.

My sincere condolences,
Kim Sheintal

____________

Dear Craig

I wanted to offer you my condolences on the passing of Beth.
I am so sorry to hear about Beth

I remember how much she loved the figs from our garden when you came home for lunch in Perpignan, a few years ago.
Ray  had told me she had health issues and that you had planned to travel together to Barcelona for a cruise on the Mediterranean Sea but that you had to cancel.
It is so sad. I am so sorry.

Diana Freidmna informed me personally.

She was a beautiful person.

I wish you strength and courage in this sad time.


AmitiĆ©s 
Hadda 

___________

Dear SCAS family,

It is with deep sadness that we inform you of the passing of our former Sister Cities Association president, Beth Ruyle Hullinger, on September 30, 2024. Beth was a devoted leader and an integral part of our organization, helping to strengthen the bonds between our community and our Sister Cities around the world. Her legacy will continue to inspire us all.

The family has requested that her funeral service be private. We ask that you keep Beth’s loved ones in your thoughts during this difficult time.

For those wishing to learn more about Beth’s life and contributions, please visit https://bethruylehullinger.blogspot.com/

Additionally, the family has suggested donations can be made to your favorite organization in her name.

With sincere condolences,

Diana Friedman




Sister Cities Association of Sarasota

PO Box 674, Sarasota
United States of America




______________





We're sorry for your loss Craig. May Beth rest in peace




Clarence Harper




_____________

I am so sorry to hear this! She was a beautiful lady. May you be

comforted by your wonderful memories of the many years you shared together.

Anita

____________




I’m really sorry for your loss. She seemed like one of the best!


Best,


Ray Sanford


_____________


God bless you and Beth


Frank Johnson


_____________


Craig,


I am so sorry to hear the passing of your beautiful Beth.

I lost my lady also to multiple myeloma also 10 years ago the

15th of this month after almost 57 years of marriage, so I know

exactly how you are feeling right now.


Pls. always remember her, don’t let her memory fade, and

always reflect on the many happy years you spent together.

My prayers are with you. Take any time you need to grieve and

know it will hurt for a while, but in time the pain will lessen. May

Beth watch over your and you children.


My best,


Bud Manazir


_______________


We are so very sorry and our thoughts and prayers are with you.


Sincerely,


Frank Gagliardi
______________

Craig - we're so sorry. our thoughts are with you.

Jack & Eileen Barber
_____________

Words escape me…we are so sorry for your loss…you guys were a great match…you traveled the world together and Beth will be missed by the many friends and acquaintances you have made!

Byron & Janet Hill
______________

I am truly sorry for your loss. I'm sure she was a wonderful lady. I pray for you peace in your time of sorrow.
Again Soo Sorry and You will be in my prayers.


Randy Robinson
_____________

May God bless both of you.

Semper Fi

Doug Barney




______________


I’m so sorry about the passing of your wife, Craig. I will be

praying for the repose of Beth’s soul. May our loving God

welcome her into Paradise and may He watch over you too.


Roger



_____________


Craig: I am very sorry to read of the loss of your beloved wife, Beth. It has been obvious from all the notes of your travels that you were a close and loving couple. Some few of us are lucky enough to have found such a woman to share our lives with us, and you have been one of those. With great sympathy, I say the words I was taught long ago:

May she rest in peace, O Lord, and let Your perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul, and the souls of all Your faithful departed, O Lord, rest in peace.


Sincerely,


Dennis Mroczkowski


___________


I am so very sorry to hear that. You two had some great years together and some very good times so remember and cherish them as I know you will. I hope the best for you in this time of grief.


Terry Hammontree



______________



So sorry for your loss. You are in our prayers. Semper Fi


Arthur O Reilly Snr


_____________




Our prayers and condolences to you, family and friends! May she rest in heavenly peace! Amen


Jesus Curiel


____________




What a wonderful woman Beth was
How lucky you were to have her in your life, Craig.
You were greatly blessed with each other.
With deepest sympathy,


Jan Madsen Alton


____________


It is with deep sorrow to receive your email about Beth, and we are very sorry for your loss.
Gary and I extend to you and your families our heartfelt sympathies and deepest condolences at this sad and difficult time.


Beth left an indelible mark with her service on the Board at SCAS, and will be greatly missed.


Our thoughts and prayers are with you. If there is anything we can do to support you at this time, please do not hesitate to reach out.


With deepest sympathy,


Isabelle Eidet


_____________


Craig, I am so sorry for your loss. I will keep Beth and the entire Hullinger family in my prayers. May she rest in peace!


Bob Raclaw


_____________




Craig, we offer our sincerest condolences to you and your family. Thank you for sharing your beautiful tribute to a truly remarkable lady.


Jerry and Ellen Farmer


___________


A life well lived encompassing deep love for Craig, friends and family, integrity, and service to her communities.
We will miss her,


Christa Friedlander


_____________


Craig- our thoughts and prayers are with you. Amazing and accomplished woman and thanks for sharing her inspirational life. SF ARnold


Arnold Punaro


_____________




Craig I am sorry to hear of the passing of your wife Beth. I experienced the passing of my wife 6 years ago. I t is a difficult time.
Jim Bailey


____________




My sincerest sorrow and condolences to you and your family. Beth was always the bright spot in the room. She is truly missed.
Pete and Claudette Dering


____________


ving lost my wife last year, who was the light in my life, I know something of your pain and sense of loss. I wish there were some way to take that burden from your shoulders. Though we’ve only met once, and briefly at the 2018 reunion, please know I’d be glad to talk if you so desire.


Semper Fi
Paul Kahle


____________




I am very sorry to hear this, Craig.
You are very brave.


John Meeks


___________


I know words don't mean much at a time like this but I am sorry Beth's light was extinguished, at least in this world but it will remain shining in your heart for years to come. I'm glad I had a chance to get to know Beth. You were lucky you were able to share a big part of your life with her and she was lucky to have you to share a big part of her life. Sue Wiggins


____________




Craig so sorry for your loss. Kay and I pray that she rest in peace. S/F


Will Holohan


________________




I am so very sorry to read this. Beth was a lovely lady. I’m glad that I had the opportunity to meet her at Quantico.


I pray for God’s peace and comfort.


Your friend,
Karen Griffin


_______________




Will keep you and your Family in m’y prayers.


Jay Kerney


_____________


So sorry Craig.


I'm sure it's been a hard time for you (I didn't see your previous email as Susan replied to it without mentioning it to me), but know that the reason it's difficult is because of all the good times that brought you two so close. Now wouldn't be so tough if it weren't for all the blessings of the past. So amidst the many current emotions , mix in a heavy dose of thanks for all the positives that were your relations with Beth, and all she added to your and her interactions with all of us who knew you two through all the good you have done and your many travels.


It's been great as you have shared so much with us and enriched our lives vicariously. Please keep it up.
Wish we could be there in person to support you and celebrate Beth.


Lots of love and prayers,


Allen Carlson



________________


Sorry to hear this Craig, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.


Sale Davies


_______________


I’m so sorry. Will keep both of you in our prayers.


Weslene and Tom Molon


_______________


Marcia and I are deeply sorry for your loss. From.the photos, it seems you covered every corner of this planet together.
God bless you both.
John and Marcia Sevold


______________


We are saddened by your loss. You and yours are in our thoughts and prayers. We'll be reaching out to Leigh Ann to check in with her and offer support (and cat sitting) too.

Love and hugs,
-Steve, Jeanette, Mateo, and Malcolm


_______________






Our deepest sympathies.


John and Elisa Wetter


________________






I am very sorry for the loss of your wife. I have no words that will reduce your pain, but hope you find comfort in the fact that you were gifted a great relationship for many years.


May the peace of our Lord be with you and Beth for eternity,


Stanley Robb


_____________




So sorry to hear of Beth’s passing. I consider myself fortunate to have had the opportunity to meet and get to know her at the MASS-3 Reunion in California. You and the rest of the family are in my prayers. Ray Pollard


______________


My condolences. I wish you the best. (I was in your The Basic School Class)


Roger Gadley


_____________


So sorry for your loss, just know that she is in a better place now, waiting for you when ever it is your time.


Lynn Wardlow


___________




I am hoping for peace for you in the upcoming days and am very sad to hear this news. I am sure you’ve been on a truly exhausting rollercoaster.


I would do something to help you if possible. I don’t know what that would be. If you need help, I’m at (571) 332-1191.


With support and care,


Miriam Kramer


___________


Craig, so sorry to hear this news.


Stan Waslik


__________


Craig,



What can one say at a time like this? Just know that we are keeping you in our thoughts and hope you will be able to dwell on all the wonderful memories you have of your life together -- those amazing trips around the world, the many accomplishments of service to many communities, her style and charm, friends and associates who will miss all that she brought to their lives. You have been blessed, dear friend. The obituary in today's paper is outstanding, an example of a life well lived and enjoyed.


Take care of you,


Mary and Jon Gordon


___________


Craig, we will miss your Beth, she was one of the good ones, especially Barb, Beth included Barb the first time they met and included her in the Group of Ladies. We are in prayer for you and family members, for comfort and understanding at this time of loss. If there is anything you need please let us know.


Joe and Barb Brooks


_____________


God Bless, Craig, it's with a heavy heart I tell you how sad I was to hear about the lost of your beautiful bride, Beth.


We had out-of-town guests this week and I just got a chance to check my emails and found your sad news. You and your family are & will remain on the top of our prayer list.


We wish you the strength and peace to get through this most difficult time. May you remain secure in the warm arms of our Lord and remember all the joy & love you & Beth shared in your life together.


God Bless & may our Lord give you peace,


Ken & Susan Brown
Semper Fidelis

_____________






    Beth Aug 2024


Float Plane Over Glacier 
Juneau, Alaska August 2024




















Aug 5, 2024



Monterey, CA July 2024 
https://dodugaru.blogspot.com/



Beth was President of Sarasota Sister Cities and led
numerous exchanges to and from our Sister Cities



Dunfermline, Scotland



Saying Goodbye to Our Great Vladimir, Russia Hosts

Perpignan, France, Sister City

Tell Mond, Israel Sister City
telmondsarasota.blogspot.com










Merida, Mexico Sister City
meridasarasota.blogspot.com






Angkor Wat Sunrise






Our Gang at our 70th Birthday Party at the Bradenton, Florida Marine Corps Ball. Looking Good!



Chili and Argentina Border in the Andes






Photos of Bellagio, Lake Como, Italy May 2022


Lake Como, Bellagio, Italy, May Boat Trip 16, 2022

https://photos.app.goo.gl/euHxNpBMrWRh48oC9


Ventura County, California Naval Base



China

Egypt







Nice lady surrounded by Giants






Beth and I were prepared for Hurricane Irma in 2017,

in the closet with our motorcycle helmets on.



Flying Space Available on US Military Planes


Flying Space Available on US Military airplanes. 
Spacious and comfortable.



 

Beth and I fly Space Available on military planes. This is a CH-47 helicopter inside of an Air Force C-17. The Helo was Coming Home From Afghanistan via Rota, Spain to South Carolina. Thanks to the Army and Air Force for bringing us home. Nice trip. 

My wife noticed that the Helo was in very poor condition, with some bullet holes. She asked the Army NCO if they were going to junk it?  "No, he replied. "We will fix it up and fly it for 25 more years."

We flew from Rota Spain to an Air National Guard base in South Carolina.  An Air Force Master Sergeant met us at the plane and said. "You can't be here!"

"But we are here." we said.

"We have no customs inspection here", she said. "You have to get back on the plane". Which was going on the California.

"No", we said, and did not. Entered the country illegally, but never caught.

More Scoop about Space A flights at:




















Beth Was a Florida Gator, a Georgia Dawg, and a Scorpio.



Our Photos and Blogs

2024 Alaska Cruise, Victoria, Vancouver, Washingon, Oregon July 1-Aug 6







Pacific Northwest Aug 2021, Covid-19! 

Panana Canal 2019-20 panamacanal2020.blogspot.com

North Atlantic 2019 northatlantichullinger.blogspot.com

France 2019 perpignansarasota.blogspot.com

Around the world 2019  aroundtheworldruhu.blogspot.com

Ascension Island 2019 ascensionspacea.blogspot.com

Spain 2018   southofspain.blogspot.com

West Coast 2018 westcoast2018.blogspot.com

France 2017 perpignanfrance.blogspot.com

Africa 2016   africaislovely.blogspot.com

Scotland 2016 dunfermlinesarasota.blogspot.com

Corner to Corner 2016 floridatoseattle.blogspot.com

Around the World 2015 aroundtheworldspacea.blogspot.com

Israel 2014   telmondsarasota.blogspot.com

Turkey 2014 turkeyhullinger.blogspot.com

Russia 2013 vladimirsarasota.blogspot.com

China 2010  peoriachina.blogspot.com

Egypt 2007  amunegypt.blogspot.com

Sabbatical 2003 sabbaticalruhu.blogspot.com

norwayhullinger.blogspot.com

viknorway.blogspot.com

spainspacea.blogspot.com

southofspain.blogspot.com

italyhullinger.blogspot.com

italyspacea.blogspot.com

greecespacea.blogspot.com

italyspacea.blogspot.com

spainspacea.blogspot.com

spaceaphotos.blogspot.com

travelhullinger.blogspot.com

spaceatrips.blogspot.com

cruiseruhu.blogspot.com

7wondersruhu.blogspot.com


  

12ru.blogspot.com

photoslwr.blogspot.com

photossarasotasistercities.blogspot.com

photosmoaa.blogspot.com

lakewoodranchfl.blogspot.com

photosempehi.blogspot.com

morganparkphotoblog.blogspot.com

wowhullinger.blogspot.com

vietnamhullinger.blogspot.com






MOAA Military Gala May 2021





June 2021 - Thanks for the photo, Betty




Beth in her little car in France. This car was BB, Beth's Bribe, to get her to quit work for a six month sabbatical and go around the world. We still have BB.



More about Beth at https://elizabethruyle.blogspot.com


and https://bethruyle.blogspot.com/


More photos:  https://photos.app.goo.gl/bfeUTxju6skDXojM6



Juneau, Alaska Aug 3, 2024






Beth found her sisters later in life


She found her sister Serena through the Georgia Adoption Agency



Click to read the story

https://serenabeth.blogspot.com/



She found her Sister Gordenia Through DNA


Click to read the story

https://gorserbet.blogspot.com/




State of Illinois


91_HR0502

 
                                               LRB9109643CBcb

 1                          HOUSE RESOLUTION

 2        WHEREAS, It has come to our attention that Beth Ruyle has
 3    announced her resignation as Executive Director of the  South
 4    Suburban  Mayors  and  Managers Association after 21 years of
 5    service; and

 6        WHEREAS, Her resignation is effective  January  1,  2000;
 7    and

 8        WHEREAS,  She  has  had many accomplishments as Executive
 9    Director, including her dedication to  fight  for  the  third
10    regional airport in the South Suburbs; and

11        WHEREAS,  Beth  Ruyle  is  well  respected throughout the
12    Metropolitan Chicago area; and

13        WHEREAS,  She  is  affiliated  with  the  Illinois   City
14    Management    Association,    the   Metro   City   Management
15    Association, the Metropolitan Planning Council, the Chiefs of
16    Police of the Southern Suburbs, the Urban Innovations Project
17    Advisory Council, the Chicago Southland Chamber of  Commerce,
18    and the Cook County Census Committee; and

19        WHEREAS,  She has received numerous awards, including the
20    Urban Innovations Award for Employee Assistance Program,  the
21    South   Suburban  Drug  Enforcement  Program,  and  Honorable
22    Mention in Urban Innovations by the Municipal Bond Bank; and

23        WHEREAS, Ms. Ruyle will be joining the firm of Ehlers and
24    Associates, a financial consulting firm; therefore, be it

25        RESOLVED,  BY  THE  HOUSE  OF  REPRESENTATIVES   OF   THE
26    NINETY-FIRST  GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that
27    we congratulate Beth Ruyle on  her  numerous  accomplishments
28    and  achievements as Executive Director of the South Suburban
29    Mayors and Managers Association and extend our best wishes to
30    her in her future with  Ehlers  and  Associates;  and  be  it
 
                            -2-                LRB9109643CBcb
 1    further

 2        RESOLVED,  That  a  suitable  copy  of this resolution be
 3    presented to Beth Ruyle as an expression of our esteem.


https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/legisnet91/hrgroups/hr/910HR0502LV.html



Elizabeth “Beth” Ruyle-Hullinger was born in Atlanta, Georgia. She was adopted at birth by Daniel and Mae Coley Smith of Covington, Georgia,...