Ruthellyn Marie (Kurth) Yates

Ruthellyn Marie (Kurth) Yates was born in Washington, D.C. exactly 30 years after her mother’s birth in Uniontown, PA. She passed away on April 14, 2020 at the age of 72. She was a victim of the Covid-19 virus.

Early family years were spent in DC and Rock Island, IL were followed by her mother’s moving to Wilmington to be near relatives and employment at DuPont where she met and married Richard Yates who adopted Ruthellyn.

Ruthy attended St. Mary Magdalen, Ursuline Academy and the University of Delaware. Following her graduation and a brief marriage, she was employed at Child Protective Services rising to head of the Northern Division before retirement.

An avid traveler and camper, she covered most of the USA preferring the southwest where she collected Native American products. She also visited Europe and Lebanon, the native home of her mother’s parents.

She is survived by her father, Richard Yates, numerous cousins and friends.

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Funeral Services

Due to the present conditions, funeral and interment will be private.

Condolences

Laura Miles lit a candle and writes,

I had the pleasure of working with Ruthellyn for many years. She was such a wonderful person who dedicated her life to protecting children. She had a heart of gold and could always be counted on to help any person or animal in need. My heartfelt prayers and sympathies to the Yates family.

04/14/2020 05:20 pm

Liz Walker writes,

I am saddened by Ruthellyn's death. There was no one like her.

04/16/2020 07:07 pm

David and Carolyn McCorquodale writes,

We were close friends with Ruthellyn in our early adult years. Carolyn was her roommate at the U. of DE for several years and we visited your place in Pennsylvania. My brother John was briefly married to Ruthellyn. Our condolences on Ruthellyn's passing.

04/17/2020 11:18 am

Patty Ditto lit a candle and writes,

Ruthellyn was my Supervisor at Child Protective Services, Rockland Road, in the mid 80's. I think I learned more from her than any Supervisor I had since. I am now retired. There was no one like her. I know she will be sorely missed but I'm sure she will be actively exploring her next life. "SALUTE" Ruthellyn….

04/19/2020 09:57 am

Kathy Lassahn lit a candle and writes,

I worked with Ruthellyn many years ago at Child Protective Services and she was a wonderful person. My condolences to the Yates family.

04/19/2020 10:06 am

Christine writes,

I dont know Ruthellyn, but I feel for her family at this time. She left the world way too soon due to a horrible sickness that I hope we find a cure for before many more good people leave us way too early. Blessing to her family and friends. I know you will all miss her so much As I sit and read how much every loved and adored her. Just a stranger. Christine.

04/20/2020 05:16 am

Jonnie Holzman writes,

Sending you my sympathy, Dick. Jim and I are so very sorry to hear of your daughter’s passing. We were talking, just yesterday, about you and Gen and your daughter, as we were remembering your devotion to ODE and to Wilmington Opera Society. So many, many memories...And now today, we are thinking of you with sadness for your loss. Peace be with you, Jonnie&Jim

04/21/2020 12:04 pm

Alex Kramer lit a candle and writes,

Ruthellyn was my aunt we had many great memories! I hope she can carry on her outgoing and fun personality in our after life. She has taught me much about life and what it means to live. Ruthellyn spent a lot of her time traveling and exploring something I also enjoy. I will always remember spending time at her house or at the farm house. Rest In Peace Ruthellyn thank you for bringing joy, laughter, and happiness into my life for so many years. I can only hope that you carry this into you’re next life RIP.

05/29/2020 10:59 am

Elizabeth J Skowron Blair lit a candle and writes,

So sorry for your loss. I remember Ruthellyn from my days at Ursuline Academy. My prayers and thoughts are with you. Cherish the memories.

06/24/2020 10:49 am

Susan Jones lit a candle and writes,

Such a good and caring person.

10/02/2020 09:10 pm

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