Ruth Mansour

RUTH  (HOWARD)  MANSOUR

Ruth Mansour, age 93, of Johnstown, Pennsylvania earned her wings by her loving daughter’s side and with her faithful canine companion, Sadie, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on June 11, 2019.  Ruth was born in Johnstown on May 26, 1926 the daughter of Daniel and Edith (Makin) Howard.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Eli “Cy” Mansour in 2011; her son-in-law, Donald K. Smith; brothers, George and Robert Howard and sisters, Donna and Miriam.

She is survived by her only daughter, Karen Mansour Smith of Pittsburgh and three grandchildren, Scott, Kevin and Mackenzie also of Pittsburgh.  Ruth is also survived by her devoted brother, Leroy (Phyllis) Howard along with numerous cherished nieces and nephew.

Ruth leaves behind a legacy of courage, determination and resilience.  She posed an indomitable spirit and was an infinite inspiration to all who knew her.  She possessed a natural curiosity and interest in current events, reading on her iPad and using her iPhone much to her family’s char grin. To her family she was irreplaceable and will always be missed and loved beyond measure.  In her younger days, she would babysit her grandchildren having beach parties in the living room, playing checkers and having tea parties with Mackenzie.

She looked forward to Myrtle Beach and Christmas vacations; she never missed an opportunity for excitement and was always ready for a new experience, especially a chance to ride a Ferris Wheel to take in life’s beauty; she found joy in simple pleasures, such as a relaxing day in nature as she pruned her roses with her adored dog by her side.

Throughout her life, she was an independent spirit and displayed great strength even in the face of adversity.  Her niece, Charleen, best described her as “one tough cookie” as she had survived breast cancer, broken ribs, an elbow and wrist.

Ruth was a life time member of the Morrellville Church of the Brethren, 408 Chandler Avenue, (the corner of Spring Street and Chandler Avenue) Johnstown, Pennsylvania 15906 (814-539-4360), where a Memorial Service for her will be held on Saturday, July 27, 2019 at 11 AM.  Reverend John Manges will be conducting the service.

Ruth wanted her legacy to be never, never give up!  A sign posted on her bed side read “Not all people can do all things, but everyone can do something.”  In the spirit of her giving nature the family suggests “paying it forward” in her memory or sending a donation to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105; Students.org/givehope or a charity of your choice

Her family wants to give a special THANKS to Dr. Ellenburgh and staff for their professionalism and compassion throughout the years caring for Ruth.

“Mom words cannot express your loving, joyful spirit of both beauty and elegance and your unshakable devotion to the Lord.  In this time of sadness and longing made bittersweet for all who knew you, and those who have yet to meet you, we can take both comfort and solace in your welcoming reunion within the kingdom of heaven.  May you laugh for evermore and love for all eternity as you embrace those you have so dearly missed…..as we will upon seeing you again.  Life is love and love is the Lord’s greatest gift.  Hakuna Matta, mom!” “Life with no worries” (The Lion King)

Love,  Karen