Mary "Ruth" Derby

Mary R. “Ruth” (Dewald) Derby, 91, of Berwick, passed away peacefully Thursday, February 23, 2023 at Nottingham Village in Northumberland. Born in Berwick on June 5, 1931, she was a daughter to the late Harry and Clara (Kashner) Dewald.

Mrs. Derby was a graduate of Berwick High School, Class of 1949. On January 1, 1954, she wed the love of her life, the late Andress B. Derby. Together, they raised their family and shared 53 years of marriage. Ruth was a talented seamstress and worked at Country Maid. She had also been an aid at the Berwick Area School District. Ruth was a member of First Baptist Church of Berwick. She honed her sewing skills outside of working hours, and made beautiful clothing. She also enjoyed reading, puzzles, and gardening. She loved spending time with her beloved family, especially her grandchildren.

Surviving Ruth are children: Ruth (Terry) Butrej of Northumberland, Jane Derby and husband, Randy Porter, of Magnolia, TX, and Daniel (Mary) Derby of Fredericksburg, VA; grandchildren: Taras (Beth) Butrej, Nikolas (Tori) Butrej, Chase (Samantha) Milheim, Cory (Michelle) Milheim, Diane (Eric) Butcher, and Cathryn (Alan) Anderson; 17 great grandchildren; sister, Marian Hack; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Andress B. Derby, who passed away December 25, 2007. She was also preceded by daughter, Rachel Hess, and brother, Fred Dewald.

All are welcome to join Ruth’s family for her funeral 11 AM Wednesday, March 1, 2023 at the Kelchner, McMichael & Readler Funeral Home, Inc., 119-121 E. Third Street, Berwick. Pastor Deb Copeland will officiate. Friends will be received from 5-7 PM Tuesday, February 28 and from 10 AM until the time of the service on Wednesday, March 1. Interment at Elan Memorial Park will follow the funeral. Memorial contributions in Ruth’s name can be made to the First Baptist Church of Berwick, 224 W. Front Street, Berwick, PA 18603. Online messages of comfort and support can be left at www.kelchnerfuneralhome.com.

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