Ruth Anne Wetzel

(nee Whitby) On October 8, 2025, of Whiting, NJ.  Age 90.  Beloved wife of the late Richard E. Wetzel.  Devoted mother of Richard Wetzel, Jr. (Diana), Christine Miller (Michael), Mark Wetzel (Brenda), Julie Troyan (Mark), and the late Stephen Wetzel, the late Michael Wetzel and the late Terri Monica Wetzel.  Loving grandmother of Heather (Neil), Robert (Devyn), Michele (Michael), Samantha, Olivia, Stephen, Jr. (Emily), Nicole, Elisha, Grace, Michael, Jr. (Darlene), Kimberly (Edward), Jennifer (William), Christopher, Melanie (Frank), and Geoffrey (Mary).  Proud great-grandmother of 25.  Dear sister of Robert Whitby, Patricia Whitby and the late Mary Lou Murphy.

Ruth was born in Philadelphia and met the love of her life, Richard, at John Bartram High School. They were married in 1954 and celebrated nearly 68 wonderful years together. Her family was her world. She loved her large family and was immensely proud of all their accomplishments, no matter how big or small. Her family was truly her greatest pride and joy.

She loved the sunshine and the beach – from yearly vacations in Wildwood to living in Ocean City, and later becoming a snowbird in Dunedin, Florida. She delighted in trips to Disney World, Busch Gardens, and SeaWorld.

Some of her favorite pastimes included watching Mother Angelica on EWTN, solving crossword puzzles, and coloring intricate mandalas. Most of all, she loved people and could talk to anyone. Working at the Information Center at the Music Pier in Ocean City was the perfect job for her. Anyone who ever met or spent time with her felt her warmth, kindness, and genuine care.

She was also an incredibly talented artist and passed that gift on to her family. One of her most cherished drawings, created in December 1962, depicted the Blessed Mother holding baby Terri Monica. She often said that God guided her hand that day and helped heal her heart.

She had an unwavering faith. One of her greatest joys was seeing Pope John Paul II—both during his visit here and at the Vatican. She treasured her Wednesday morning prayer group and the rosary.

Ruth and her family were deeply appreciative of all the care and compassion provided to her over the past few years. Every caregiver was a true blessing.

She will be remembered as a bright and shining soul whose love and spirit will continue to live on through her family and all who knew her.

Family and friends are invited to attend her visitation Friday 9:00-10:30 AM at the Egizi Funeral Home 119 Ganttown Road, Washington Twp.  Funeral service 10:30 AM.  Interment St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Chews Landing.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Ruth’s memory may be made to Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

“A Life Well Lived Is Worth Remembering”