Obituary of Ruth Lovell

Lovell, Ruth 1934-2025 Ruth Alfreda Lovell nee Barrett of Orillia Ontario passed away at the age of 91 at the Leacock Care Centre on Friday August 8, 2025. Feisty to the end but finally at peace! Ruth was born in Port Sandfield ON to parents John (Jack) Barrett and Jessie Hammond. She cherished so many happy memories growing up on the grounds of the Elgin House Resort on Lake Joseph. Her early dreams of wanting to go to art college were never fulfilled but as a full-time homemaker she found creative ways to employ her artistic flair in her dress, home and flower gardens. All God’s nature gave her joy. Despite the dramatic changes to her life that the protracted battle with dementia brought she retained her sharp sense of humour, quick witty retorts and an enjoyment in practical jokes. A self-taught piano player she gladly shared her abilities throughout her life with her church, women’s groups, nursing homes and youth programs. Although not nearly as good or as famous as the von Trapp family we sure had fun singing along with Mom playing the piano and or accordion at family gatherings. If you could hum it, she could play it. She found moments of pleasure even in her final days at the piano. Life for Ruth was a life of laughter and music interspersed with tears and sorrow supported by her belief in God throughout her long journey. Ecclesiastes 3:4 “a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance,” Ruth was predeceased by her husband Arthur Francis Lovell and son Kevin (Cindy). Survived by daughters Deborah (David), Michelle (David), Valerie (Curtis), Esther (d David); sons Michael and David. Grandchildren Kevin, Carmen, Jacob, Jocelyn, Mary Frances and Poppy. Great grandchildren Evelyn, Sufian and Haroun. Predeceased by brothers Elgin and Douglas and sisters Ilda and Irene. Survived by sisters Grace (Bill)Sawyer and Pat Barrett. Heartfelt appreciation for the outstanding end of life care Mom received at the Leacock Care Centre from the caregivers on the Cardinal Wing. In keeping with her wishes cremation has taken place. Arrangements are entrusted to Simcoe Funeral Home, 38 James St E Orillia. In death as in life she wanted no fuss. Private internment at St. Andrew’s - St. James’ Cemetery, Orillia. Any expressions of sympathy can be made in her name to Sleeping Children Around the World Canada. www.scaw.org Messages of condolence are welcomed at www.simcoefuneralhome.ca