Hope Meredith, longtime resident of Ruskin, Florida, passed away on September 19, 2023, at HCA Florida South Shore Hospital in Sun City Center, Florida, three weeks short of her 91st birthday.

Hope was born October 10, 1932, in Tyronza, Arkansas. Her parents owned a traveling circus, and she spent the first part of her life performing with her four sisters and two brothers under the big top. She worked as an aerialist, contortionist and animal trainer. She was the last of the "Rays of Sunshine" to pass.

After leaving the circus life, Hope was a primarily a homemaker but had a passion for veterinary work, specifically with goats. She settled down in Ruskin in the late 1950s and married Howard D. Meredith in August 1961; Howard passed away in September 1997.

All who knew Hope knew she lived life to the fullest. She was fearless and never backed down from a challenge. She was full of spirit, drive and determination. She had a quick wit and a great sense of humor and was almost always smiling or laughing. She loved Jesus and knew that one day she would meet her Savior.

She leaves behind two sons, a daughter, a step-daughter, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and countless other family and friends. She will be missed deeply by all who knew and loved her.