Ruthann “Ruth” Roden, 82, passed away on August 24, 2026. Originally from Toledo, Ohio, Ruth moved to Florida in the early 1970s and made Ruskin her home for many years.

Ruth worked for GTE Telephone Company for more than 30 years before retiring. Even after retirement, her caring nature continued when she became a caregiver, providing care and support to others.

Ruth is survived by her daughters, Susan Scott and her husband, William, of Ruskin, and Cindy Armstrong and her husband, Rob, of Valrico; her three granddaughters, Braden, Brittney and Christine; and her great-grandson, Carter.

Anyone who knew Ruth knew she was one of a kind. She was funny, stubborn, outspoken, independent, and maybe even a little crazy at times. She was never afraid to speak her mind, and her strong personality was one of the many things that made her who she was. Behind that strong personality was a kind and caring heart, and she was always willing to help someone in need. She loved to sing, write, fish, and she had an especially big heart for animals. Over the years, she cared for and loved many animals, including cats, dogs, horses, chickens, roosters, and fish. Her animals held a special place in her heart and were always an important part of her life. She also had a special love for frogs and dragonflies, little things that will always remind us of her. She had a presence you couldn’t forget, and life was certainly never boring when Ruth was around.

More than anything, Ruth loved Jesus and her family. Her love for Him was a special part of her life and something she carried with her always.

It is hard to put into words how much we will miss her. We will miss her laugh, her voice, her stories, her stubbornness and all the little things that made her who she was. Most of all, we will miss simply having her here with us.

We will always cherish the memories we shared with Ruth and carry her with us wherever we go. As much as it hurts to lose her, we find comfort in knowing that she is with Jesus now, at peace and surrounded by His love. She was deeply loved and will forever hold a special place in our hearts. 

Her love, laughter, and memory will remain with us always, until we meet again. Services will be held on October 12, 2026 at 12:30 at Sarasota National cemetery.