Ruth Devine Draper

Ruth Devine Draper, 87 died peacefully at Seasons Hospice in Wilmington on Saturday, November 27, 2021, surrounded by her family. She was a native Delawarean and lived many years in Lewes and later in Dover, DE. Ruth was a dedicated Quaker well known for her zest for life. She was a supportive and loving Mom, Nana, Aunt, and friend. Above all, she relished spending time encouraging her family and friends. She was an environmental, political, civil rights, and antiwar activist. She was a proud member and supporter of Camden Friends Meeting, Delaware Ornithological Society, Delaware Wildlands, the American Birding Association, and Women's Advocate. She was a docent at the Zwaanendale Museum. She helped raise money for the Kalmar Nyckel, the Grand Opera House, and Bacchus Theater at the University of Delaware. She was an avid birder, tennis player, and tennis fan. She loved to visit museums, read, talk politics, and listen to music. Born on the last day of 1933 in Malden, Massachusetts to William Reed Draper and Ruth (Kelley) Draper. Ruth was a proud Alumni of the Westtown School and The University of Delaware. She later earned a master's degree from Southern Illinois University. She worked as a guidance counselor at Middletown High School and was a lifelong learner, attending many Osher classes. She delighted in sharing the many things she learned.
Ruth was predeceased by her husband Gerald I Buckson, brother Tom Draper and son Will Buckson.
She is survived by her daughter Beth Buckson Valdes (Todd Denton) of West Chester, PA, grandchildren Andy of Philadelphia and Ana Valdes of Brooklyn, NY, sister Diane Draper McGuire, many dear friends' nieces, and nephews.
Family and friends will celebrate Ruth's life at 2-4 pm on Saturday, December 11 at the Torbert Funeral Chapel 1145 E Lebanon Rd, Dover. Vaccines preferred and masks strongly encouraged.
Donations to Delaware Wild Lands, the Delaware Ornithological Society, and Planned Parenthood are appreciated.