Heather Eleanor Durant

Heather Eleanor Durant (nee Ruiter) passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 28, 2025, in Spring Hill, Florida. She was 78.

Born in Sweetsburg, Quebec, Canada, to parents Homer and Eleanor Ruiter, Heather graduated from Chambly High School in the suburbs of Montreal. She embarked on a varied working career, holding positions in banking, manufacturing, local government, and education administration. She volunteered for a variety of worthy causes, most recently as an assistant librarian in a local elementary school in Lacoochee, Florida.

On November 19, 1966, Heather married Austin Durant and started a love affair that was to last almost 59 years. Together, they built a tight-knit and happy family as they moved from Quebec to New Brunswick, Canada, before eventually relocating to the United States, landing in Connecticut before settling long-term in Ridge Manor, Florida.

Mom was a life-long crafter, taking on projects such as restoring antique furniture, creating stained glass art, and making holiday decorations. Her latest passion was rug hooking, creating many rugs for family and friends, and coordinating events within the rug hooking community. She was also an avid golfer in her later life, enjoying many rounds on the links in both Canada and the United States.

Heather is survived by her husband Austin and their three children: Stephanie Adams (Todd) of Hammonds Plains, Nova Scotia; Christopher Durant (Janet) of Winchester, Virginia; and Emily Lee (Daniel) of Lorne Park, Ontario, as well as their four beloved grandchildren: Lauren, James, Julia, and Colton. She leaves behind her siblings: Ted Ruiter (Margaret), Lynn Riley, Phil Ruiter (Cindy), as well as numerous cousins, nephews, nieces, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, as well as her brother, Chris Ruiter, and her niece, Heather Riley.

A private service will be conducted at a later date. The family would like to thank Vitality Living and HPH Hospice of Spring Hill for their care and kindness. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your local SPCA.