Ruth Ann Donnelly, 75

Ruth Ann (Walsh) Donnelly, 75, of South Coventry, formerly of Gilbertsville, lost her hard-fought battle to cancer on Tuesday, August 2, 2022 at home surrounded by her loving family.

Ruth Ann was a devoted and loving wife to her husband, Joseph Donnelly, with whom she shared 50 years of marriage. She was a dedicated mother to son, John Donnelly, husband of Theresa, and daughter, Megan Taylor, wife of Randy. She was a doting Grandmother to her grandchildren Brigid, Kiersten, Maeve, Colin, and Logan who gave her so much joy and filled her life with happiness. Ruth Ann was the oldest daughter of the late John and Ruth (Frith) Walsh, and she is survived by her three siblings, Robert Walsh, Kathleen Cummings, wife of Bob, and Denise Mylett, wife of Tom.

Ruth Ann dedicated her life to educating children. She was a teacher at Spring Ford Middle School for over 30 years, teaching 8th Grade English & Language Arts before retiring in 2003. She always found pleasure running into her former students in the community and catching up with them. One of her favorite lesson plans was helping her students create travel brochures because she herself was an avid traveler.

Ruth Ann was a devout Christian and was a member of the St. Columbkill Parish in Boyertown for 40 years. She experienced much joy watching her children and grandchildren follow in their Catholic faith, and she prayed for her family, friends, and fellow community members as part of her daily ritual.

Ruth Ann enjoyed reading, traveling near and far, attending Broadway shows, and most importantly, spending time with her children and grandchildren. She never missed a school ceremony, game or performance as she was so proud of them all. She would travel out of state for the opportunity to see them in their element and offer her support, and she often joined them on family vacations. She was the best wife, mom, and mom-mom, ever present in all aspects of their lives, and she will be missed beyond words by all those who love her.

A Funeral Mass will be held Monday, August 8, 2022 at 11:00 AM at St. Columbkill Roman Catholic Church, 200 Indian Spring Rd., Boyertown, PA 19512. Visitation will be Monday from 10:00-10:45 AM at the church. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local “Operation Backpack” or a charity of your choice in memory of our beloved Ruth Ann.

Add My Condolences

My sincere condolences to all of Ruth Ann's family. It was my pleasure to have worked with her in the English Department in the Spring=Ford School District. We would chat often in the planning room or passing in the halls. Ruth Ann was a fne teacher and an ven greater peron. She will surely be missed.

~ stan wysochanki
8/8/2022 3:41:40 PM

I am so sorry for your loss. Hugs and prayers to you all.

~ Georgeann Rohrbach
8/7/2022 8:30:14 AM

Our sincere condolences to the Donnelly’s and Taylor families. I have know mama Donnelly for over 30 years and have many fond memories of her. She was a second mom to me and she will always hold a special place in my heart. She absolutely loved her family and grandchildren more than words can explain. Rest In Peace Mama Donnelly. You are truly missed but will never be forgotten.

Yvonne, Mark & Ryan Brown

~ Yvonne Brown Pottstown, Pa
8/6/2022 6:56:48 PM

Sorry for your loss

~ Edd Harris
8/6/2022 3:21:16 PM

Ruth taught at Spring Ford Middle School with my husband Dusty Kistler who was a reading specialist. He had many fond thoughts about Ruth Ann.

~ Sharon J Kistler Boyertown, PA
8/6/2022 2:31:46 PM

Dearest Donnelly Family,
Our deepest condolences to your family during this difficult time. Ruth Ann was a beautiful woman and she will truly be missed. She always had a smile and a kind word, Heaven has added an Angel. May time heal the sadness that you feel, know that you are loved and in our thoughts and prayers.
With heartfelt sympathy, Kevin and Bernadette

~ Bernadette
8/6/2022 1:12:12 PM

Dear Mr. Donnelly, John and Megan, our hearts are filled with sadness and love for you at this difficult time. Mrs Donnelly was a beautiful person inside and out. We are lucky to have shared many great moments with her and the Donnelly family. We will always remember her kindness, love, and dedication for her family. She touched the lives of many. We wish you much comfort, peace, and prayers. Love Always, Mary & Paul??

~ Mary & Paul Friel
8/5/2022 3:36:35 PM