Ruth Ann "Rebello" Desmarais

Rumford – Ruth Ann (Rebello) Desmarais, 76, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 8, 2026. Born on April 16, 1949, in Fall River, Massachusetts, Ruth was the daughter of the late Manuel and Frances (Mendoza) Rebello. She lived her life guided by deep faith and an unwavering commitment to her family, work, and community.

Those who knew Ruth would describe her as selfless, kind and faith-filled. She was an intelligent, strong-willed and resilient woman whose selflessness was felt by everyone she encountered. She was stubborn when she needed to be, loyal always, and deeply respected by those who knew her. These qualities earned her the admiration of her colleagues, friends, and family alike.

She was the wife of the late Archie Desmarais. Though their time together was cut short, their love endured. Together, they built a family that remained the center of Ruth's life. She was a loving and devoted mother to Susan Thompson and her husband Mark of Rumford, and a proud grandmother to Rebecca, Raffaella, and Zachary Thompson.

Ruth was the matriarch of her family and a devoted sister to the late Lorraine Sousa Williams; Robert Rebello and his partner Janet Aurelio of Tampa, Florida; Jean Carroll and her late husband Timothy of The Villages, Florida; and John Rebello and his wife Sharon of The Villages, Florida. She is also survived by her nephews Justin and Jordan Rebello, and her niece and nephew Cathi-Jo Finnerty and Walter Sousa Jr, all of whom were always there for her and meant a great deal to her, along with many other nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

For over 35 years, Ruth worked as a Legal Secretary at the Al DiFiore Law Office, where she was known for her dedication, intelligence, and reliability. She later proudly served the State of Rhode Island as Executive Administrative Assistant to former Speaker of the House, Gordon Fox for more than 11 years. Ruth loved her work and the respect she earned through it, particularly during her years at the State House. She took great pride in being someone others relied on, earning lasting respect from all her friends and colleagues.

A longtime resident of the Rumford community since moving there from Providence in 1976, she was a devoted parishioner of St. Margaret Church. Her Catholic faith was central to her life. She taught CCD, served as a Eucharistic Minister, and coached Rumford Little League girls' softball teams.

Ruth was devoted to her family and friends and had a generous, caring heart. She loved having company and took great pride in hosting her annual Christmas Eve gatherings, welcoming family and friends into her home year after year. She spoiled and adored her grandchildren and her little dog, Nala.

Ruth was well respected and deeply loved by many. As we celebrate the life of this extraordinary woman, we are reminded that her light will continue to shine in the hearts of those she leaves behind. Her memory will be cherished, and her presence deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Margaret Church, 1098 Pawtucket Avenue, Rumford, RI. Burial will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 550 Wampanoag Trail. Family and friends are invited to attend. Calling hours and flowers are respectfully omitted. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the RISPCA.

Arrangements by the Rebello Funeral Home, East Providence.

www.rebellofuneralhomes.com