Ruby A. Mitchem

Ruby A. Mitchem, aged 91, of McDonald, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on December 11, 2024. Born on March 21, 1933, in Pocahontas, Virginia, Ruby was a cherished member of her family and community whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of many.

Ruby, known affectionately for her lively spirit and unwavering dedication to her loved ones, enjoyed a rich tapestry of interests throughout her life. She found joy in crossword puzzles, cross stitching, and cooking—skills that she often shared with family and friends. She enthusiastically embraced dancing, bringing smiles and laughter wherever she moved. Ruby's greatest passion, however, was her family. She cherished every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, creating lasting memories that will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

On January 26, 1952 , she married James R. Mitchem who passed January 12, 1997.

Ruby is survived by her four children: Gladys (Yake) M. McGinnis of Sturgeon, Danny (Goldie) R. Mitchem of Burgettstown, Kathy (Mark) A. Debee of Ocean City, Maryland, and Barbara (Jay) F. Pogranzni of McDonald. She also leaves behind two brothers, Kenneth and Elwood Thompson, both residing in Virginia. Ruby was a loving grandmother to twelve grandchildren: Anita Colussy, Bobby Zombeck, Daniel Mitchem, Amy Fields, Corey Mitchem, Christine Lombardi, Tammy Donoway, Michelle Betteridge, Erin Denny, Johnny Tompkins, Tina Petrarca, and William Antantis. In addition, she was blessed with fourteen great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren who will carry on her legacy of love.

Ruby was preceded in death by her father, Greever T. Thompson, and her mother, Sylvia M. Smith. She mourned the loss of her son, James Michael Mitchem, as well as three brothers: Cloyd C. Thompson, Garland C. Thompson, and Preston Thompson, and two sisters, Helen and Janice Thompson.

A visitation honoring Ruby's life will take place on December 15, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM and again from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Graff-Nation Funeral and Cremation Services, located at 218-220 East Lincoln Ave., McDonald, PA 15057. The funeral service will be held the following day, December 16, 2024, at 11:00 AM at the same location.

As we remember Ruby A. Mitchem, let us celebrate the love she gave so freely and the joy she brought into our lives. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit and cherished memories will live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.