In Memory of Ruth M. Turnbull

Obituary

Ruth M. Turnbull, 86, of New Hartford, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, December 21, 2020, at the Masonic Care Community.

She was born on March 5, 1934, in Utica, a daughter of the late Arthur and Mae McKiernan. She graduated from Utica Free Academy and continued her education in the professional study of voice. On May 16, 1958, Ruth married James B. Turnbull, III at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Utica. James passed away on January 4, 2002. Ruth was devoted to her local community and her love for helping others never wavered. She found her passion with the Faxton Hospital family through her role as the Executive Director of the Faxton Hospital Foundation. She was a member of the Hospital Association of New York State. She was a member of the Junior League of Utica, the Women’s Fund and served as President of the Utica Women of Rotary. Her service continued as a Chairperson of the United Way for Hospitals and Nursing Homes. She served on the Board of Directors for the Forest Hill Cemetery Association and The House of the Good Shepherd. Her Christian faith and love of music inspired her active role at the Westminster Presbyterian Church. She was a passionate soloist and enjoyed her role as the Christian Education Director.

Ruth loved her family dearly and together with her husband, treasured family time at camp on the St. Lawrence River. She enjoyed singing whenever she could, playing tennis, arranging flowers and, most importantly, spending time with her grandchildren.

She is survived by her children and their spouses, James B., IV, and Jennifer Turnbull, Mark A. and Laurie Turnbull and Lynda M. and Mark Cioni; grandchildren, Stephen and Allyson Turnbull; Mark, Amanda and Adam Turnbull; Matthew and Victoria Cioni; and a niece Debbie Rose. She was predeceased by her siblings, Dorothy McHugh, Gertrude Miccoli and Ernest Rose.

The family would like to offer a special thank you to the Caregivers of the Monroe and Buffalo Households at the Masonic Care Community, along with Dr. Kevin McCormick, for the outstanding care and comfort given to Ruth.

Due to the present COVID-19 pandemic, services will be held privately at the convenience of the family. Interment will be in Forest Hill Cemetery. Arrangements are with the Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, 13 Oxford Rd., New Hartford.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish, may make contributions to Westminster Presbyterian Church, 714 Washington St, Utica, NY 13502 or the Masonic Care Community, 2150 Bleecker St, Utica, NY 13501.

For online expression of sympathy go to www.fwefh.com