Minola Ruthanne Babb's Obituary
Minola “Ruthanne” Babb of Lewes, DE, age 82, passed away Sunday, November 3, 2024. She was born in Wyoming, OH on August 7, 1942, to the late Thomas and Minola (Mowery) Murphy.
Ruthanne was a beloved mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend to all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Her warmth was felt instantly whether you were a lifelong friend, or a new acquaintance met only moments before. Ruthanne brought light to every gathering, sharing a selfless love that seemed boundless. A woman of incredible courage, Ruthanne faced life’s challenges with a resilient spirit and always found a way to lift others even in difficult times. She lived for the joy of giving, and to know her was to experience a true friend who put others before herself without a second thought.
A lover of all things American West, Ruthanne spent 17 cherished years in the shadow of Albuquerque’s mesas. She soaked in the sunshine of those high desert days and found comfort in the cool nights. This landscape, much like her love, was a quiet beauty that seemed to stretch on forever.
Ruthanne’s greatest love was her family, and she made each member feel uniquely cherished. Her hugs, her wisdom, and her laughter were gifts she gave freely and with deep affection. Ruthanne was always there to listen and support, offering kindness without asking anything in return. Time spent with her was a reminder of the true meaning of love and family.
Her hands were rarely idle—she adored arts and crafts and had a special talent for bringing beauty into the world in small, thoughtful ways. Ruthanne was also a devoted letter writer, never letting distance or time keep her from reaching out with a heartfelt note “just because.” Her handwritten letters – often accompanied by a magazine article – are a treasure, a lasting reminder of her thoughtfulness and care.
Those left behind to cherish Ruthanne’s memory include her two daughters Roberta Fedorka (Laurence) and Pamela Kelly (Brian), her son John E. Babb III (Laura); her four grandchildren: Anthony Ciccaglione, Brian Kelly, Alicia Ciccaglione and Matthew Kelly, her sister Ivy Turley (Stephen McGrath), numerous nieces, nephews and cousins, and her loving, protective, companion Chihuahua, Taco.
In addition to her parents, Ruthanne was predeceased by devoted, loving husband, John “Jack” E. Babb, Jr. her loving, caring son, Craig Babb and by her brother David Murphy.
Ruthanne leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity, and courage that will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew her. She taught us the importance of kindness, resilience, and giving without expectation. Though Ruthanne is no longer with us, her spirit lives on in the many lives she touched. She will be deeply missed and remembered always with love and gratitude.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, November 15, 2024, at Parsell Funeral Homes, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Hwy, Lewes, DE 19958. Family and friends may begin visiting at 10:00 AM. Burial will be held privately.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 12 noon on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at the Norristown Maenner-Chor Club, 920 Haws Avenue, Norristown, PA19401.
All those unable to attend the services are invited to join the service via livestreaming by visiting the following link: http://www.parsellfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/permalink/11562306/LTWebcast
In lieu of flowers, the family recommends donations to Shriners Hospital for Children, 3551 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19140 or online at https://donate.lovetotherescue.org/give/145680 or to the First State Animal Center and SPCA at DONATE TO THE ANIMALS — First State Animal Center and SPCA.
Kindly visit the Tribute wall available on this website to add your message.
FLORIST NOTE: PLEASE HAVE ALL FLOWERS DELIVERED ON THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2024, BY 3:00 PM TO OUR LEWES LOCATION.
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