Ruth Schiller Graff

Ruth Schiller Graff
April 7, 1932 – September 21, 2022

Ruth died peacefully and pain free in Evanston, Illinois (the state of her birth), after leading a full life of ninety years. She left the world as she wished and did not have to survive with diminished capacities. For this, although heartbroken, we are eternally grateful.

The family held a quiet, private memorial, and as our Mom was not a traditionalist in regards to ceremony, it seemed a fitting tribute. Her friends at The Mather (her place of residence), did as well.

Ruth was deeply attuned and sensitive, an incredibly giving mother, and to many a cherished friend. She had an impeccable eye and expressed her artistry in many ways. She nurtured this in her children and curated her living environments beautifully. She loved dancing, singing, and artmaking.

Ruth treasured nature and found comfort in what she described as, 'watching the wind blow.' She involved herself in city beautification and took sustenance in the lush, jungle-like plantings surrounding her Miami home.

In the 60s she drove a Camaro covered with peace signs, her anti-war sentiments expressed for all to see. She had a deep sense of social justice and little tolerance for inequity and inequality - an advocate for those in need - the current climate of deep concern.

Ruth came into her own and flourished while living at The Mather. There she engaged with friends and participated in many activities (including films, lectures, concerts, and canasta). Her wit, smile, laughter, and keen intelligence - was invariably a beacon to others...

Ruth is predeceased by her husband Harry Graff, sister-in-law Doris Notarius, brother-in-laws Morton Notarius and Robert Neumann, survived by: her sister Anita Neumann, daughters Sondra & Lisa Graff (husband Dave Carrico), grandchildren Laura & Ryan Koven, nieces Suzanne Wright, Jacqueline Pelavin, Susan Notarius, Amy Rubin, step-grandchildren Matt & Mason Carrico, McCall Raglin, and step-great grandchildren, Denver, Wylie, & Holden, and extended family and friends.

In remembrance...Take time in ways meaningful to you - 'watch the wind blow, smell the flowers,' cherish your family and your friends. We cannot think of a better tribute to our Mom, Ruth, who will be sorely missed.

We're including a video link which Lisa conceived of and facilitated for her 90th birthday.
https://share.vidday.com/v2/e/o-hmf7px?v=yDtbZlts6HtD
Apologies if we unintentionally left anyone out of this mix.

Contributions in her memory, (although not necessary), can be made to an organization of your choice. Those pertinent to her included the Humane Society of Greater Miami, the ACLU, the Alzheimer's Association, MoMA, Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, Planned Parenthood, and the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation.

Our family is grateful for the outpouring of love and support from so many. We truly consider you our extended family.