Ruthlee (Newell) Root, 99, of Derry, NH, died Thursday January 20, 2022. She was born on October 1, 1922, a daughter of the late Dr. Charles and Harriet (Chase) Newell. Ruthlee was a graduate of The Sargent College of Boston University, with a degree in physical therapy. She was an accomplished seamstress; crafting several wedding dresses, school outfits, and even reupholstering when called upon. Ruthlee also served her community for many years as a school bus driver, driver trainer and assistant manager for Timberlane Transportation. Always one to be active, she attended church regularly, and never missed an opportunity to hit the high note in the choir. She was also an avid tennis player, playing in many local groups. To say that she will be missed would be an understatement.
She is survived by her son, Brent Woodward; and six daughters, Dixanne Ricamo, Peggy Ann Raybeck, Louise Heath, Heidi Hartwell, Wendy Sue Furlong and Daphne Thurgood; eleven grandchildren; twenty great grandchildren; two great great grandchildren as well as many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. She was predeceased by her husband Weston S. Root and her six siblings, Henry Newell, Benjamin Newell, Edward Newell, Prescott Newell, Louise Audette and Dorothy Newell.
Following cremation, services will be held on Saturday, May 14, 2022 at 10:00am at the First Parish Congregational Church in East Derry. In lieu of flowers; the family requests memorial contributions to be made to The First Parish Church of East Derry, Rehabilitation Fund, donated in the name of Ruthlee N. Root. The address for donations is PO Box 114, East Derry, NH 03041.
The Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 15 Birch Street, Derry is assisting with arrangements.