Ruth Ann Copley

Ruth Ann (Fowler) Copley, 87, passed away on November 10, 2026, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with her husband Robert Copley by her side.

Born in Southside, West Virginia, Ruth was the daughter of the late Elmer and Pearl (Hudson) Fowler. She spent most of her adult life in the Rio Grande, Ohio, area, where she built a life centered on family, faith, and caring for others.

Family was always at the heart of Ruth's life. After tragically losing her mother in a house fire at the age of 13, Ruth helped care for her younger brothers and sisters, demonstrating a sense of responsibility, compassion, and devotion to family that would remain with her throughout her life.

Ruth was a devoted wife and mother who shared 68 wonderful years of marriage with her husband, Robert. The couple celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary on October 10, 2026, just one month before her passing. Ruth's love and devotion to Robert were evident throughout their life together. Having lost his leg to cancer at the age of 22, Robert was the recipient of Ruth's steadfast love, care, and support throughout their marriage.

Kind and thoughtful, and sometimes quiet in nature, Ruth was always concerned about the well-being of others. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family, and she treasured the memories they made together. She was a longtime member of Trinity Baptist Church in Rio Grande, Ohio. Ruth was employed at Rio Grande Elementary School as a school cook, where she served generations of local children. Earlier in her working life, she also worked at G.C. Murphy and Carl's Shoe Store. She especially enjoyed camping and spending time with those she loved.

Ruth is survived by her loving husband of 68 years, Robert Copley, and her son, Jeffrey Scott Copley (Chris Barbarita), of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She is also survived by her sister, Freda Marsh (the late Don), of Pineville, Missouri; and three brothers, Carl Fowler (Evelyn), of Crown City, Ohio; Harold Fowler (Reda), of Rio Grande, Ohio; and David Fowler (Charmaine), of Worthington, Ohio.

In addition to her parents, Ruth was preceded in death by her sister, Ellen Saunders (Wayne), of Vinton, Ohio; and her brother, Clarence Fowler (Abby), of Willow Wood, Ohio.

Ruth will be remembered for her gentle nature, her unwavering devotion to her family, and the quiet, thoughtful ways she showed her love. She will be deeply missed.

The funeral service for Ruth will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, November 16, 2026 at Willis Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Ohio Valley Memory Gardens. Friends and family may be received from 10:00 a.m. until time of services on Monday.