Ruth Elizabeth Orr Rehfus

Ruth E. Orr Rehfus, a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 30, 2026, in Hudson, Ohio, surrounded by her cherished family. Born on June 23, 1931, in Cleveland, Ohio, Ruth lived a life filled with love, service, and dedication. Ruth was the daughter of Harry Albert and Rhoda Anne Pike Orr, and she grew up in a family that cherished togetherness and love. She was predeceased by her beloved parents, her four sisters, and their husbands, Lillian Alberta Lopatt (Dan), Betty Jane Wells (Tom), AnnaMary Fisher (Truman), and Dorothy May South (Jack). She is also predeceased by nieces Judy Wells Baker (Wes), Alice Lopatt Lemieux (John), Amanda Fisher Burgbacher (Rick), Marilee Wells Kushner (fiance, Henry) and nephew Lance Fisher (Jo Ann). Also, a dear friend and companion, Charles Yoder from Vermont. Ruth was a proud graduate of Brecksville High School, class of 1948. She attended Otterbein College and graduated in 1952 with a BA. Ruth earned her master's degree in Library Science (MLS) from Kent State University in 1967. Ruth's life was enriched by her marriage to Marine Officer James R. Rehfus in 1952 in Brecksville, Ohio. Together, they shared a life of adventure and service. Her commitment to service extended to her time in the Marine Corps Reserve and as a Volunteer Gray Lady in military hospitals in Quantico, Virginia, and San Diego, California. Professionally, Ruth dedicated her career to the Federal Government as a Librarian with the Department of Interior, specifically within the National Marine Fishery Service in Arlington, Virginia, and later in Rockport, Massachusetts. Her work was a testament to her passion for knowledge and information, as well as her dedication to public service. Ruth was an active member of the Unitarian Universalist Society in Rockport, Massachusetts, until 2017 when she moved to Beachwood, Ohio, to be closer to her sister and family. Her community involvement extended to her love for music as she enjoyed singing in community choruses wherever she lived. Ruth also enjoyed traveling and reading. Her favorite activity was spending time with family. Known for her quick wit, intelligence, and generous spirit, Ruth had a unique ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued. Her warmth and kindness touched countless lives, and she was deeply cherished by her family. Ruth is survived by her nieces and nephews, MaryAnn Fisher Herd (Rick), Becky Fisher Bartlett (Cliff), Barb Fisher Gray (Ross), Rhoda Fisher Kinard (Kevin), Richard Lopatt (Jane), Tim Wells, James Wells (Alexandra), Debbie South Stamper (Forrest), Matt South (Nancy), along with numerous great nieces, nephews, and great-grand nieces, nephews, and cousins, all of them will miss her dearly. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Danbury in Hudson, Ohio, and CorsoCare Hospice for their compassionate care. Ruth's life was a testament to love, service, and family. Her legacy of kindness and generosity will forever be cherished by those who knew her. Her family will hold a private ceremony to celebrate her life and the profound impact she had on all who knew her.