Ruth “Ruthie” Zager was born September 2, 1936, in New York City. The values of her parents, Dave and Goldie (Miller) Rodman, guided Ruth throughout her eighty years. Honesty, ethics and generosity were Ruth's hallmarks.
Ruth knew how to make an entrance. Her infectious smile and flair for impeccable style, lit up rooms, from state to state, and coast to coast. Her storybook life mirrored the pages of a best-selling novel.
After graduating from Eastern District High School, Master Art was quick to recognize Ruth's keen intellect and promoted her to supervisor. Her passion for history, intertwined with business, helped pave the way for Ruth and Jim to build a successful company from scratch.
Ruth was a voracious reader, loved Broadway and classical movies. She enjoyed sipping good wine and eating fabulous food, long before it was in vogue, and handpicked a large group of deliciously, delightful friends.
Ruth died in the arms of her loving husband, James "Jim" Gallagher, on August 30, 2016.
She was preceded in death by her own loving parents, Dave and Goldie (Miller) Rodman. She is survived by her "everything" husband, Jim, and her two adult children: sons, Eric and Jay Zager. Also surviving are her dear brothers, Charles and Phil Rodman, 5 very much-loved grandchildren and scores of nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held for Ruth at 11:00 a.m. on September 10, 2016, at St. Joseph's Cemetery, in Oxford, NY. In accordance with Ruth's wishes, there will be no calling hours.
In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions to Meals on Wheels, c/o Wilson Funeral Home, Inc. 68 South Broad Street, Norwich, NY 13815.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Wilson Funeral Home. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit the funeral home website at: www.wilsonfh.com.