Ruth Anderson Howe

October 17, 1924 - January 19, 2025
Ruth Anderson Howe thumbnail
 
Marana Mortuary & Cemetery
Kelly Umar Light a candle

Obituary

It is with deep sadness and gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Ruth Anderson Howe on January 19, 2025, at the age of 100. Ruth was born on October 17, 1924, in Pittsburgh, PA, to Frank and Anna (nee Barnett) Anderson. She was the last surviving member of the family which included her four brothers and three sisters.

Ruth graduated from Penn Hills High School in 1941 and went on to earn a degree from Robert Morris Business School. In 1946 she married Walter Howe, a Navy NCO, and embarked on an extraordinary life that took her across the world. Over the years she called 18 different places home, finally settling in Tucson, AZ.

Known as Mimi to her beloved grandchildren, Ruth cherished her family above all else. She is survived by her two sons, Mark (Mary) Howe and Wesley (Kay) Howe, and two daughters, Melanie (Patrick) O’Hara and Amy (Michael) Bowman. Her legacy of love lives on through her 11 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and three great-great grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. Ruth found her greatest joy in being surrounded by those she loved.

Ruth’s remarkable life was marked by her warmth, resilience, and zest for living. She was an avid reader and a passionate sports fan, known for her love of cheering on her favorite teams. She also loved gardening, nurturing her flowers and plants with tender care. Later in life, she enjoyed the pleasures of playing the slots at the casino and going out to dinner at her favorite restaurants.

A lifelong hard worker, Ruth’s journey began at just six years old where she sorted potatoes in her family’s grocery and butcher shop. She carried that dedication throughout her life, balancing the roles of mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother while also working at the Pennsylvania Municipal Services Company and the Penn Hills School District. Her strength, determination, wisdom and generosity were an inspiration to everyone who knew her.

Ruth’s family held a private memorial service at the home of her granddaughter, Tara Finley, honoring her wishes to keep the occasion intimate. She lived a long and wonderful life. Though she is deeply missed, her memory will forever be a source of love and comfort for all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Leave a Condolence

Life Event Timeline

Help tell the story of Ruth by contributing to the Life Event Timeline. Upload the photo of an event...

Post an Event

Timeline for Ruth Anderson Howe

Born: October 17, 1924
Died: January 19, 2025

Condolences for Ruth Anderson Howe

Marana Mortuary & Cemetery

Our sincere condolences.

The staff of Marana Mortuary & Cemetery.

 

Kira Peters posted on 1/30/25

Mimi was always kind and welcoming. Her family and friends were lucky to have her in their lives for such wonderful amount of time. She will be missed. Rest in peace Mimi. ❤️

 

Eric, Tina, & Judy Fluent posted on 1/29/25

Please accept our condolences and deepest sympathies for the passing of Mimi. The Fluent Family was blessed to have traveled from Pennsylvania to share in her 100 year Birthday celebration.

 

Kelly Umar posted on 1/29/25

My sweet Mimi, I am so happy to have been your granddaughter. I don’t know how I’m supposed to be on this Earth when you are not anymore. However, I know you are always with me in my heart. Love you more than tongue can tell.

 

Mark & Judy Swartswelder posted on 1/28/25

Our Deepest Sympathy to Mimi’s family! You’re in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time! We’re so glad that we attended Mimi’s 100TH Birthday Party!

 

158