Ruth Speidel Buzzelli

Ruth Speidel Buzzelli, age 97, of West Brandywine, PA, took her last peaceful breath on Tuesday, November 5, 2019, surrounded by her loving family at Freedom Village.

Ruth was born and raised in Frackville, PA; the original hard coal region, and was the daughter of the late Walter and Agnes Williams Speidel.

At 97 years old, Ruth made every moment here on this Earth count. She was a true trailblazer, and defied the odds in many ways for a woman who was born in the 20’s. Among Ruth’s accomplishments; she was the first woman Deacon in her church, Beverly Hills Presbyterian Church, Upper Darby, PA. She also was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. For 33 years, she worked for the Upper Darby School District as a Food Services Supervisor. Ruth was a hard worker, and when a fellow colleague or friend faced any challenge, she was there as a loyal advocate with an action plan.

Gracious, strong, and determined all describe Ruth’s demeanor. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and was cherished by all who knew her. She was also proud to be "Aunt Toots" to her nieces and nephews. Beyond the scope of her accolades, her love and generous spirit is what will most be remembered by her family.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Robert Buzzelli, and 8 siblings; Captain William Speidel, Chester Speidel, Randall Speidel, Jack Speidel, Gladys Tomczak, Lorraine Glenn, Irene Speidel, and Elizabeth Speidel. 

Ruth is survived and missed by her daughter Robin Buzzelli Carpenter, 2 grandsons, Christopher Rieben (Jennifer), Craig Rieben (Melissa), 5 great grandchildren; Carter, Christopher, Caden, Cate, and Corrine Rieben, and many extended family members and friends.

Ruth’s family will be receiving relatives and friends from 9:30am-10:30am on Saturday, November 9th, at the James J. Terry Funeral Home, 736 E. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown, where a celebration of Ruth’s life will take place at 10:30am. Interment will follow to Glenwood Memorial Gardens, Broomall, PA.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Ruth’s name can be made to the Holisticare Hospice, http://www.holisticarehospice.org/make_a_donation.php or to the Beverly Hills Presbyterian Church, 500 Midvale Rd, Upper Darby, PA 19082.

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