Stephanie Marie Ruta Obituary
Stephanie Marie Ruta, 39, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, September 17, 2026, following a short and courageous battle with leukemia.
Born February 26, 1987, Stephanie was the beloved daughter of Francine G. "Marques" Ruta and the late Stephen F. Ruta.
Stephanie was a graduate of Gloucester High School, Class of 2005, and attended North Shore Community College. She was employed by ABC Home Health Care Professionals for the past several years, where she cared for many clients with compassion and dedication. Working with seniors was a true reflection of the selfless person Stephanie was. She took great pride in her work and cared deeply about her clients and their well-being.
Stephanie had a warm and loving personality that everyone could feel. She was always there to cheer you up and make you laugh. She was a true friend - the kind of friend who would do anything for you and make you feel special. She always had a way of letting you know how important you were to her and that she always had your back.
Stephanie hugged with all her might; giving the strongest, warmest, most generous hugs you could ever receive. She would wrap around you and squeeze you like she hadn't seen you in years even if she had just seen you yesterday.
Stephanie never forgot a birthday or any other special occasion. She was always checking in on those closest to her, making sure everything was okay and letting them know that, if they needed anything, she was there. She always had a way of finding the good in everything and everyone.
Stephanie's beautiful smile, kind and loving heart, and generous spirit will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched. She will be remembered for the love, laughter, kindness, and friendship she gave so freely to others.
In addition to her mother, Stephanie is survived by her brother, Bradley Ruta, and his wife, Brittany; her nieces, Sophia and Tessa, her nephew, Stephen, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends.
She was predeceased by her maternal grandparents, Grace "Parisi" and Frank "Chico" Marques, and her paternal grandparents, LoisAnn "McGillivary" and Genarino (JR) Ruta.
Visiting hours will be held at the Greely Funeral Home, 212 Washington Street in Gloucester, on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, from 4:00-8:00 PM. Her Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Good Voyage Church, 142 Prospect Street, Gloucester, on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at 10:00 AM. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Gloucester.
