Member Directory

Ruthann is a founding Board Member of BW NICE and feels blessed to be a part of a wonderful army of networking women entrepreneurs, who selflessly give of their time to support victims of domestic violence. She, herself, is a survivor.

As a licensed Funeral Director/Embalmer for over 45 years, she has had a vantage point to see where the grieving family needed more. First, she used her portrait art skills toward excellence in the appearance of their loved one; then designed and built ‘at home’ comfort in her funeral home.

Next, she took on the funeral service, itself, and became a Life Celebrant, to make the service uniquely personal, with her company, Celebration of a Lifetime. This biographical ceremony style is where she talks about who died and why they mattered. Now that they are gone, how can we pick up and carry on the good in them? She has travelled great distances to be available to families in their time of need.

Now Ruthann has added another personal touch to funeral gatherings with the creation of a memorial pin. Family members are identified by an lapel pin of a leaf which remembers the one who fell from the family tree. This leaf looks like a hug and holds a heart, much like our loved ones hold our heart long after they’ve gone. This is helpful for visitors to know to whom they should offer condolence. Afterward, it is a treasured keepsake to wear when they want that special someone near. You will see them present at family gatherings, graduations, weddings, etc. and even around town.

MemoriaLeaf is the ‘pink ribbon’ of remembrance. With the heart on the leaf, it will evoke more conversation and afford the grieving the opportunity to speak of someone they love. This simple act is a grieving tool and can bring healing to a broken heart.

If you know a funeral home that would like to be a point of sale for MemoriaLeaf, please share Ruthann’s contact information.
Sale of this pin supports Good Grief Inc. (children who have lost their parents), The Compassionate Friends (parents/siblings who have lost a child), and Alliance of Hope (for survivors of loss by suicide).

Ruthann is available to speak on funeral customs & planning (the non-gross version with a splash of humor), business networking, domestic violence & abuse testimony. She also speaks on overcoming obstacles and creating your future.

Ruthann lives in White Township, Warren County, with her husband Tom and enjoys the serenity of nature, the joy of friends and the extravagant grace of God.