Obituary of Ruth Jean O'Donnell

It is with great sadness the family announces the passing of Ruth Jean O'Donnell (nee Rice) which occurred peacefully at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital on Saturday, May 18, 2024.  Born July 10, 1944, in Fredericton, NB, she was the daughter of the late Hilda Munn and the late Roswell Harold Rice. Ruth, or “Ruthie” as many knew her, worked for many years as owner and operator (with her husband) of the local “Lucky Dollar” and Eaton’s Agency and later as homecare coordinator of services for seniors for the Boiestown Area. She also ran the Stagecoach Bed and Breakfast and an art gallery out of her home for many years. She was active in the community and was a member of the Betterment Committee and of the Legion in Boiestown. Later she enjoyed singing at local senior homes with her husband. She was a faithful churchgoer all her life.  As a member of the St. Peter’s Anglican Church in Boiestown, over the years she played many roles including Sunday school teacher, choir, ladies, and altar guild member, and served as a warden.  More recently she attended St. Mary’s Anglican Church in Fredericton and was a choir member. Known for her warm hospitality, always welcoming people into her home and beloved camp on the Miramichi, her artistic and decorating ability, her love of time in Florida, jamborees and dancing, she will be sorely missed.

Ruth is survived by her loving and devoted husband, George O'Donnell of Fredericton; sons, Andrew (Lynn) of Farnham, Quebec and Brent (Angela) of Fredericton; brother, Harold Rice (Louisa); grandchildren, Amanda McCordic (Brad Tricoteur), Kadie Woods, Hannah (Morgan Niles), Thomas (Emily Gardner), Elizabeth Rose, Ethan Wilson; and great-granddaughters, Kylah O’Donnell and Amelia Wilson; nieces, Terry Rice and Karen Rice; nephews, Chris Hunter and Ray Rice (Becky) and many other nephews, nieces, cousins and friends. Besides her parents, Ruth was predeceased by her sister, Brenda Spencer (Clifford).

Arrangements are under the direction of York Funeral Home. There will be no visitation.  A Memorial Service will take place on Wednesday, May 22 at St. James the Greater Anglican Church in Ludlow, NB at 2 pm with a reception to follow. The interment will take place at St. Peter’s Cemetery following the reception.

The family would like to thank the medical staff in the Palliative Care Unit at the DECH and the many friends and family who visited Ruth during her illness.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in memory of Ruth be made to a local food bank of your choice. Personal condolence may be offered through www.yorkfh.com