Ruth L. Thompson

Ruth L. Thompson     “beloved wife, mother, Nana, and friend”

BOLIVAR, N.Y.---Ruth L. Thompson, 81, a lifelong resident of Bolivar, passed away in her home with her loving family by her side on Thursday, June 13, 2019, after a long illness.

Born on Friday, October 15, 1937 in Bradford, Pa., she was a daughter of Louis and Florence Kuhn Colley.  On February 6, 1971 in Friendship, she married David “Dave” S. Thompson, who survives.

Ruth was a graduate of Bolivar High School, Class of 1955.  For 35 years, she was employed as a credit manager for the Olean Medical Group in Olean, until her retirement.

Ruth was a member of the Olean Exchange Club and was secretary/treasurer of the Bolivar Joint Fire District.  She was a hospice volunteer for many years in Cattaraugus County and was a loyal supporter of the Bolivar Volunteer Fire Department.  Ruth was known for her kindness, be it making cookies for shut-ins to having strangers welcomed into her home for Christmas and Easter. 

Left to cherish her memory are her husband; four children, Debra A. Payne of Kalkaska, Michigan, John W. (Randy Cook) Kinnicutt of Rochester, Diane R. (Bill) Sortore of Little Genesee, and Jeanie D. (Mike) Kostun of Wellsville; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; a sister, Mary (Gary) Bastian of Wellsville; several nieces and nephews; and her best friend, Sue Eaton.

In addition to her parents, Ruth was predeceased by two brothers, Bill Colley and Louie Colley; and a sister, Jean Pray.

Family and friends may call from 1pm to 3pm on Saturday, June 15, 2019, at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, 118 South Union Street, Shinglehouse, Pa., where funeral services will follow at 3pm with The Rev. David Herne, of Heritage AFlame Ministries, Bolivar, officiating.  Burial will be in Maple Lawn Cemetery, Bolivar.

Ruth’s family wishes to thank the Bolivar and Richburg Fire Departments, her V.N.A. nurses, faithful caregivers, and friends who have lovingly helped care for her during her illness.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Ruth’s name may be made to the Bolivar Fire Department, 460 Main Street, Bolivar, NY, 14715.

Ruth’s family has entrusted her care to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.

To express condolences, share a fond memory or view a video tribute of Ruth, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com