Ruth (Smith) Cleveland

Ruth (Smith) Cleveland, 105, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2026, at Bethany Gardens in Rome, NY. She was born on February 7, 1921.

Ruth was a lifelong resident of the Syracuse area, raising her family in Westvale. She began her nursing career as a private “new mother/baby nurse,” then worked at Westhill School District in charge of attendance. Ruth finished her career as an LPN in the nursery at Crouse Hospital. She loved her career caring for babies and children.

Ruth’s devotion was especially evident in the care she provided to her husband, Bob, throughout his life. With her help, he was a proud 85-year survivor of Type I diabetes, which many did not survive at the time. He received special recognition from Joslin and Eli Lilly & Co. Bob and Ruth were an inspiration to many. They were inseparable throughout their 62-year marriage. They loved camping and later traveling in their motorhome all over the country, with Maine being their favorite destination and Florida their winter home.

Ruth found great joy in her family, whether it be playing card games, baking cookies, or gathering for holiday dinners. She was a devoted member of Robinson Memorial Presbyterian Church. She will be remembered for her kindness, strength, and devotion to those she loved.

Ruth was predeceased by her husband in 2010; and great-grandson, Marcus Welles, in 2018.

Surviving are her daughter, Lyn (Chuck) Welles of Wyalusing, PA; son, Neil (Nancy) Cleveland of Alder Creek; five grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

To celebrate Ruth's life, relatives and friends are invited to gather on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus.

A funeral service will follow at the funeral home.

Ruth will be laid to rest in Belle Isle Cemetery, Warners.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Assoc., P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023.