Conroy, Ruth Ann Marie (nee Hatch), suddenly Sat., Sept 21, 2013 in St. Louis, Missouri

Conroy, Ruth Ann Marie (nee Hatch) of Kirkwood, suddenly Sat., Sept 21, 2013 in St. Louis, Missouri.  Dearest sister of Tony (Helene) Brunetto, beloved mother of John (Melissa), Mike and Tim Conroy, cherished grandmother to Lauren, Olivia, Cami and Bobby Conroy and most treasured caregiver for her wonderful companion, Fred the Dog.  She was preceded in death by her best friend, roommate and companion, Carolyn Cotton.

Ruth was born June 3rd, 1941 to Ruth Ann and George Hatch in Hackensack, New Jersey, both of whom preceded her in death.  She married John (Jack) T. Conroy Dec 2rd, 1961 in Lyndhurst, New Jersey; they were divorced in May of 1982.

She graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from West Virginia Wesleyan and later attained a Master of Arts in Teaching from Webster University.  She held teaching positions at Mary Queen of Peace School and served as a Social Studies/History teacher at Villa Duchesne specializing in Asian studies, retiring in the 2006 to care for her elderly mother.

Ruth passionately loved teaching; she would spend hours helping students after school and in her free time.  She was a track coach, mentor, and passionate writer winning several collegiate awards.   As was her nature, she donated to multiple charities across the country.  Her wanderlust led her everywhere from China to Alaska to Canada to the great west.  She will be greatly missed by all, especially the grandchildren who accompanied her on many adventures.

A memorial mass will be held Thursday, October 3rd at 4:00pm in the Chapel at Villa Duchesne High School, 801 S Spoede Road, Frontenac, Missouri.  In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Self Help Center, 8301 Crest Industrial Drive, Affton, MO 63123.