Ruth Arnold Obituary
Ruth, affectionately known as Ruthie, was born on February 10, 1945, in Lowellville, OH, the daughter of the late Mahlon Austin Bittinger Sr. and Margaret Marcella (Stacy) Bittinger.
Ruthie's life was a testament to her deep faith and her compassionate heart.
Ruthie's journey in caring for others began with her education at Jameson Memorial Hospital School of Nursing. Her career as a surgical nurse was marked by her tenure at Jameson Hospital, beginning in February of 1966, and later at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Youngstown.
Beyond her professional career, Ruthie's life was deeply rooted in her devotion to the Lord. A woman of great faith, she was a longtime active member of the former Church of the Nazarene. Her service to the church spanned various ministries, including youth ministry, and several work and witness trips to the Dominican Republic. Even as her health and mobility declined, Ruthie's commitment to her faith and community never wavered. She found innovative ways to continue her ministry, engaging with online religious communities, prayer circle groups, sunshine card ministry, and daily prayers for her loved ones.
Ruthie is reunited with her husband of 49 years, James R. Arnold, who she has deeply missed since his passing in 2016; her parents; brother, Mahlon Austin Bittinger Jr.; and half-brothers, Arthur, Lambert, and Dale Bittinger.
Ruthie is survived by her niece, Diane (Bittinger) Wilson; nephew, Robert Bittinger; great-nephews, Nicholas Carter, Jason Carter, and Jeremiah Wilson; great-great-niece, Luna Carter; great-great-nephew, Jazz Carter; three cousins, Donna Wendland, David Stacy and Leslie Zike; brother-in-law, Al Rooks; and her longtime friend and caregiver, Donna White.
Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to 11:30 AM, Friday, December 19, 2025, at the R. Cunningham Funeral Home and Crematory Inc., 2429 Wilmington Rd., New Castle, with a funeral service immediately following. Seminarian Chris Baker will officiate. Interment will be at Lake Park Cemetery in Youngstown, OH.
Online condolences may be offered to the family by visiting www.cunninghamfh.com.
2429 Wilmington Road, New Castle, PA 16105
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