Ruth Shay Block passed away at her home in Laurel, Maryland on October 20, 2016, just weeks shy of her 100th birthday. Born in Croton Falls, New York on November 29, 1916 to John and Minnie Shay, she was the second oldest of nine children. She moved to Washington, DC during WWII where she met and married her husband Albert. She called Laurel home for the next 70 years.

Ruth is pre-deceased by her beloved husband Albert and survived by her son Robert; daughter Jeanne; grandchildren Molly and Adam; sister Marie; brother Richard; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Ruth was a strong believer in giving back to her community and spent many years as a volunteer for the American Cancer Society, HELP Laurel, and the Ladies of Charity at St. Mary of the Mills Church.  Ruth served as the President of the Archdiocese of Washington Ladies of Charity Board of Directors from 1988-1990.  She was an animal lover, an avid bridge player, a golfer who tried not to take herself too seriously, and a passionate Washington Redskins fan until the end. Her keen wit, compassion and sense of humor will be missed and always cherished by her family and friends.