Eleanor (Ardy) Rankin

Eleanor Ardythe Elmerick Rankin of Augusta, GA passed peacefully into eternal life on 12/4/24 with her husband and family members by her bedside. She was 77.

Born in Canton, OH, Ardy graduated St. Mary’s school in Nauvoo, Illinois and studied nursing at St. Joseph Hospital School of Nursing in Savannah, GA, graduating 1st in her class. Ardy’s RN career began in Atlanta where she served at St. Joseph’s hospital downtown. Atlanta was also where Jack and Ardy met. After four months, they were married – a marriage that lasted 54 years and produced seven children. Her nursing career spanned the states of Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Pennsylvania. In 1982, she and Jack became members of Alleluia Community in Augusta where she served in the music ministry, at national conferences and local churches. Ardy’s lifelong call was music and her love was playing music for and with children.

Faith, integrity and love for family were Ardy’s guiding principles. Noted by all was her bravery in dealing with cancer. The first diagnosis came when she was forty. It returned after 2013, while she was living in Charleston; she was healed with no further evidence of disease. The last diagnosis was 11/21/24. One of her last wishes was to be with all seven children and 27 grandchildren – which she did on Thanksgiving, a week before she died. A high point of that gathering was all participating in Ministration at the Time of Death and Eucharist. Much joy, music, memories and love were shared during those wonderful days! 

Among the many friends who served Jack and Ardy during this time were Dr. William Conkright, MD, and Alisha and Irish of Trinity Hospice and Alleluia Community with their love and support.

Survivors include her husband, Jack, and children Holly (Jim), Sean (Katie), Scott (Amber), Heather (Ben), Kate (Adam), Shea (Eric) and Sadie (Napoleon). Ardy leaves 27 grandchildren. One brother (deceased) and five sisters. 

A wake for Ardy will be held Wednesday, December 11 at 7pm at Alleluia Community School Gym, 2819 Peach Orchid Rd., Augusta, GA 30906. A Celebration of Life will be on December 12 at 9:30am at Burns Memorial Methodist Church, 2372 Lumpkin Rd., Augusta, GA 30906. Interment will follow at the Alleluia Community Cemetery, Dearing, GA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Alleluia Community School, P.O. Box 6805, Augusta, GA 30916.