Jason A Ruth

Jason A. Ruth, 28, of Fall River, passed away, peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on Oct. 22, after a long illness. Jason was born in Boston, MA, Nov. 12, 1983. He was a graduate of the Class of 2002, at B.M.C. Durfee High School, where he ran cross-country and track, for four years, and acquired, from his team-mates, the nick-name "Shaggy," (for the "Scooby-Doo" character of the same name, whom he resembled, at that time) which had remained with him since. He worked for a number of years in the food service at UMASS/Dartmouth. His interests included a love of mythology, wolves and movies. Quite able with a computer, he kept in regular touch with a large number of extended family members and friends. His friendliness, loyalty and constantly positive attitude endeared him to all who knew him. He was an active participant in "Special Olympics" activities for many years, competing in both traditional and "unified" sports, including swimming, soccer, basketball, golf, and track activities, and he started the powerlifting program in the Fall River group. His Special Olympics honors include the "Athlete of the Year" award for the Southeast Region, and the "Good Sport Award", at the Massachusetts Summer Games, the highest award given. He also is one of the Special Olympians chosen to represent that organization at the New England Basketball Hall of Fame, in Kingston, RI. He is survived by his loving wife, Crystal (Montigny) Ruth; his son, Odin; his parents, Lester & Annie Ruth, of Fall River; his brothers Robert & Jeremy Cassidy, of Magnolia, MA; his brother, Michael; his sisters, Hope & Kacie; and his three nieces & nephews. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 30, 4:00PM – 8:00PM, at Boule Funeral Home, 615 Broadway, Fall River, MA. No service will be held, but a gathering of friends is expected to take place in a few weeks. Those who wish to do something, to honor his memory, are encouraged to help THAT organization to continue its wonderful work. The very best way to do this is to make checks or money orders out to "Special Olympics, Massachusetts," and be SURE to write in the "memo" line "GFR Program," so that the proceeds go directly to help support the efforts of the Greater Fall River area Special Olympics Program, of which Jason was so long a part of, both as an athlete and a certified Coach, in several sports. Contributions should be sent to: Fall River Special Olympics Program, 194 Narragansett Street, Fall River, MA 02720.