Lila Ruth Baldridge, 88, loving mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2018.
Baldridge was an active Greenwich resident, and founding partner of Baldridge Reading and Skill Development – an educational publishing company, and Baldridge Reading and Study Skills, established in 1955. She taught and served students worldwide.
She lived a very fulfilled life and leaves behind the legacy of the Baldrige-method for the improvement of Reading and Study Skills. This educational organization provides college and secondary school students with techniques and strategies on how to read faster, comprehend better and improve grades. It has been conducted at hundreds of schools and colleges throughout the US and globally, such as Colgate, Barnard and Skidmore universities such as Yale, Brown Tulane and John Hopkins.
Her programs have also been taught at businesses and government agencies such as Consolidated Edison, Alcan Aluminum, Condé Nast and The White House.
Baldrige was also owner of “Health Well Natural Foods,” the first Health Food Store in Greenwich on Greenwich Avenue, established in 1968.
Baldridge, whose nickname was Dusty, was born in New York City on July 17, 1931, obtained her undergraduate degree from Alephi College and her Master’s in education from Columbia University. She was happily married for 48 years to her partner and co-director Ken Baldridge. The two co-authored: “Seven Reading Strategies,” and “Reading Strategies for Business and Professional People,” both published by Prentice Hall, and “How to Raise Very Smart Children,” a collection of advice from deans and scholars from colleges and universities.
She was dearly loved by her employees, students, her children and all members of the surrounding community. She was known for her kind, compassionate and loving nature. The Happiness Club of Greenwich was co-founded by her and she was also actively involved with the Senior Center in Greenwich and Atria of Stamford.
She was appreciated for her engaging, fascinating and productive conversations – exploring ideas and finding solutions was her specialty. She played many musical instruments and had a deep love for music and creativity. As a gifted fine artist, she brought inspiration and joy to many.
She is survived by her son Robert Baldridge, daughter Joy Baldridge-McAlarney, son-in law William McAlarney and son Clifford Baldridge; five grandchildren: Jesse McAlarney of Nashville, Tenn. Dr. Jonas McAlarney and Dr. Kelly McAlarney; and five great-grandchildren including Haley and Will McAlarney of Raleigh N.C.
A Memorial for Lila “Dusty” Baldridge will be held on Saturday, April 14, 2018, at 1 p.m. at The Quaker Meeting Purchase, 4455 Purchase Street, West Harrison, N.Y. Doors open at 12 p.m. for a celebration of Dusty’s life – so please wear cheerful colors or anything that makes you happy! For directions, visit purchasemeeting.org
