Ruth Skidmore

Ruth E. Skidmore, 91, passed away on Monday, June 24, 2019, at Sterling Care at Frostburg Village.

Born on May 12, 1928, in Borden Shaft, she was the daughter of the late James and Sarah (Cathcart) Ritchie.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband and soul mate of 65 years, Paul Harold Skidmore as well as five brothers.

Ruth was a member of Salem United Church of Christ, a graduate of Beall High School and was previously employed by the Kelly Springfield Tire Company and Sears.

A favorite pastime, in addition to dining out and visiting those who were in nursing homes and other type medical/health related type facilities was driving up through the mountains and admiring the beautiful countryside.   She particularly enjoyed the Amish country and the lovely horses and other animals that might be found grazing in the fields.

She loved nature, flowers and animals of all kinds, but in particular dogs and bunnies.  There was never a dog she met that she didn't like and she "adopted" a family of bunnies during her last years at home, giving them safe haven and regular feedings of food.

It was the simple things in life that gave her the most pleasure - watching the crazy antics of an animal, rooting her Pittsburgh Steelers on, sitting at home in front of the fire with Paul, reading verses from the Bible, making "goodie" bags for those less fortunate during the holidays or special days in the year, or sitting and talking with a friend or family member.

Surviving are her daughter, Cathy O’Neill and husband Greg, Warrentown, VA; grandson, Christopher O’Neill, NC; numerous nieces and nephews whom adored her; and grand-dog Maddie and those that came before – Sandy, Laddie, Shelby, Sweetie and Chloe.

Funeral services will be held at Durst Funeral Home P.A., 57 Frost Avenue, Frostburg, MD on Friday, June 28, 2019 at 2 pm with Chris Skidmore officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.

Serving as pallbearers will be Greg O'Neill, Christopher O'Neill, Denny Ritchie, Dean Ritchie, Scott Ritchie and Holden Ritchie.

Interment will follow in Frostburg Memorial Park.