Ruth Ann Penberthy

 

Ruth Ann Penberthy is recognized by Continental Who’s Who as a Pinnacle Professional Member in the field of Gifts and Personalized Baskets. Penberthy is the Owner of Perth Enterprises, LLC, which specializes in custom gifts, baskets and specialty items. “My professional life began in 1958,” Penberthy said. “I set out, armed with a degree in nursing from the University of Michigan, and I immediately gained significant experience in emergency care, neo-natal intensive care and in-hospital and outpatient care of those afflicted with a wide array of mental challenges.” Following her initial experience, Penberthy completed her Master’s degree in Genetic Counseling from Sarah Lawrence College, as well as a practicum in amniocentesis counseling as related to possible birth defects where and when abnormalities were observed.

“My husband’s work experience and my own were mainly in New York City or surrounding areas,” Penberthy said. “At the time, our three children were fairly independent, so we moved to Wilmington, North Carolina, intending to spend more time sailing. We soon discovered that we were not ready to retire, so we bought a restaurant equipment company. We continued to employ the manager of the equipment company, so we could learn from him about the products and requirements of professional kitchens.” Following 11 years of running the restaurant equipment company with her husband, Penberthy retired and moved to Williamsburg.

Eventually, Penberthy needed to put her nursing knowledge to use at home. “My life changed radically when my husband was diagnosed with a form of dementia,” she said. “About a year ago I began looking for a new challenge. I needed to be available to care for my husband, but he continues to read and play bridge, so I decided to learn more about computers. The next logical step for me was to start an online business. At some point in time, everyone gives one type of gift or another.” Penberthy’s business, Gifts in Baskets, offers over 500 choices to express every sentiment for every occasion. She utilizes her skills and areas of expertise in client relationship-building, customer service, innovative idea implementation, strategic planning, organization, day-to-day operations, problem solving, project management and implementation of organizational development. To further her professional development, Penberthy is a member of the National Association of Professional Women. She also volunteers her time to assisted living and nursing homes. Penberthy dedicates this recognition to her husband, Richard Penberthy.