Ruth Olive Shonce

Ruth Olive Shonce, age 76, of Reynoldsville, PA, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 3, 2023, at Allegheny General Hospital. Born on November 14, 1946, in Mount Holly, Burlington Township, New Jersey, she spent a memorable life enriched with love and joy.

She is survived by her companion and best friend, Douglas Larrabee of Reynoldsville, PA; her four children: Lisa Leigey and husband Dennis of Frenchville, Larry “Roe” Gallaher, Jr. and wife Jennifer of Osceola Mills, Debra Gasbarre and husband Dennis of Johnsonburg, and Joelle White and husband Rick of Clearfield. She leaves behind fourteen grandchildren, eighteen great-grandchildren, and a sister, Maryann Bozarth of New Jersey.

Ruth was a dedicated member of the Salem United Methodist Church in West Decatur, PA. She was preceded in death by her former spouse, Raymond Shonce, Sr., her son Wilbur Nicholas Gallaher, a sister, Carol Sullivan, and a brother, Charles Fillius.

Professionally, Ruth was associated with Ames Department Store, Mountain Laurel Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center (formerly Clear Haven Nursing Home), and Navasky Sewing Factory.

Fondly known as “Mem” or “Meme” by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she cherished every moment with them. She never missed an opportunity to be at their sporting events, dance recitals, cheerleading and dance competitions, band/chorus concerts, as well as plays. Regardless of the event, she was always there.

Ruth possessed a deep affection for others and volunteered for many years with Penn Highlands Community Nurses - Hospice. She eagerly anticipated participating in the annual Chili Bowl event each year.

Remembered as a caring, compassionate, kind, loving, and thoughtful woman, Ruth's absence will be felt by many, including her family and friends from Girard, OH. Her lifelong friend, Nancy Rosman of Reynoldsville, will also mourn her loss.

A memorial service in her honor will take place on Sunday, August 13th at 2:00 P.M. at the Salem United Methodist Church in West Decatur, led by Pastor Brian McTavish and Pastor Mike Knepp. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Salem United Methodist Church, West Decatur.

The family extends their profound gratitude to the staff at Penn Highlands DuBois and Allegheny General Hospital for their care and support during this challenging time. They also wish to thank the hospice staff at Allegheny General Hospital for their kindness and compassion.