Ruth Alice Croft Major was born on January 30, 1938, at Northern Dutchess Hospital in Rhinebeck, New York, and passed on July 12, 2020. She was born of older parents (Alice Barbara Travis and Russell D. Croft) and received extra mentoring and wisdom from her Aunt Ethel Croft and Great Aunt Edna Rappelyea Wilson. Her closeness and affection for older people lasted throughout her life. Ruth's twin brother, George Arthur Croft, died 10 days after their birth. Ruth celebrated 44 years of marriage to James Robert Major (deceased). Ruth's grandchildren were a special joy to her. Aaron, Ian (Charlie), Alice, Peter, Rusty, and Kathleen. She had three older brothers, David (Doreen and RuthAnn), Lester (Rose), Stephen (Dawn, marriage of 30 years, Ruth, marriage of 20 years). In addition, Ruth and Jim enjoyed their nephews and nieces Ron (Nancy), Ken (Paula), Cheryl (deceased), Lorrie (John), Terri (Jeff), Christy (Joe), Michael, David, Dougie, Dennis, AnnMarie (deceased), Alan (deceased), and many great nieces and nephews.
Her education and employment reflected her interest in older people. She received a B.A. from the University of Colorado, Boulder, and an M.A. from University of Northern Colorado, Greeley. She worked at Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, New York after graduating from Franklin Delano Roosevelt High School in Hyde Park, New York, then moved on to family life. Ruth retired from the University of Colorado after 25 years as an administrative assistant.
Her children, Su and Bob (Monica) brought happiness and pride to her heart. Education and Family brought structure and stability to live fully.
Donations may be given to Sangre de Cristo Hospice, United Church of Walsenburg, or Dorcas Circle Food Bank in Ruth's memory. Arrangements made by Boies-Ortega Funeral Home.