Lorraine Elizabeth Ruth, Beebe retiree
Lorraine Elizabeth Ruth, 72, passed away peacefully Friday, Feb. 13, 2026, at her residence in Milton.
Born June 26, 1953, in Boston, Mass., Lorraine was the daughter of the late Richard J. Menkello and Helen E. (Hefforn) Menkello. She was a graduate of Somerville High School Class of 1971. Following graduation, she began her career with New England Merchants National Bank, where she worked for several years before moving on to Merritt Oil Company. It was there that she met the love of her life, Timothy Lee Ruth.
Lorraine and Timothy were married in 1979 and shortly thereafter made Delaware their home, where they raised their three daughters. Lorraine devoted many years as a stay-at-home mother, providing a loving and steady foundation for her family. She later began a remarkable 30-year career at Beebe Healthcare. Starting in housekeeping, Lorraine’s determination and strong work ethic led her to advance into the role of monitor technician. To achieve this, she attended Sussex Technical High School and Delaware Technical Community College, earning certifications in EKG and phlebotomy. Known for her hardworking nature and occasional stubborn streak, traits that served her well in healthcare, Lorraine took great pride in her work and accomplishments.
In her free time, Lorraine enjoyed trips to the casino, where the lights, sounds, and thrill of the slot machines brought her joy. She also loved relaxing at home watching her favorite television shows. Above all else, her greatest joy was her grandchildren. She adored spending time with them and never missed a chance to spoil them. They meant everything to her. Pop-Tarts for her daughters’ breakfasts might have been OK, but not for her grandchildren. A trip to grandma’s house meant coming home with a full belly and a full heart.
Lorraine was caring, loving, empathetic, and truly beautiful both inside and out. She had a big heart and a deep love for animals, sharing her life with many pets over the years, though, never a hamster. She will be remembered for her kindness, strength, devotion to her family, and the love she gave so freely.
She is survived by her loving husband of 48 years, Timothy Lee Ruth; her three beautiful daughters, Victoria Elizabeth Woolman (Walter IV), Amanda Kathryn Marr (Beau) and Meredith Ashley LeCates (Rocky Jr.); and her nine prized grandchildren, Makiya, Caroline, Walter V, Ethan, Gabriella, Xaivar, Jasmine, Payton and Emerson.
Services will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, consider making a donation in Lorraine’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, stjude.org.
Visit Lorraine's Life Memorial webpage and sign her online guestbook at parsellfuneralhomes.com.
