Ruth L. Drechsler

Ruth (Callaghan) Drechsler, 68, passed away unexpectedly on September 8, 2025, while doing what she loved most, traveling the country with her husband and best friend, Peter, by her side. Known for her patience, warm character, and unwavering devotion to her family, Ruthie lived a life filled with light, love, purpose, and adventure.

Born on November 19, 1956, in Saranac Lake, New York, Ruthie was the youngest daughter of seven children born to Vincent and Kathryn (Otis) Callaghan. Although the years eventually spread the siblings across different places and paths, Ruthie maintained a strong, lifelong bond with each of them, rooted in the deep love of her Irish family.

After graduating from high school in 1974, Ruthie pursued her bachelor's degree at SUNY College of Technology in Utica, where she met Peter. They married in 1979 and began a journey together that was filled with love, joy, laughter, and an enduring partnership of 46 years.

Ruthie's calling was caring for and inspiring children. She began her career at Northeast Parent and Child Society in Schenectady, later working at Mayfair Daycare and teaching Sunday school at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. After her own children, Jonathan and Jordan, were born, she happily poured herself into their lives, eventually serving as a Cub Scout Den Mother, volunteering at school and community events, and building a home filled with love and warmth. Her patience and gentle spirit made her not only a mother to her sons but a "second mom" to countless children who were lucky enough to know her.

For 25 years, Ruthie dedicated her heart and talents to the nursery and kindergarten program at the Jewish Community Center (J.C.C.) in Niskayuna. She touched the lives of generations of children, many of whom never forgot her kindness. In recognition of her lasting impact, the J.C.C. surprised Ruthie with an honorary bench and a "Give a Book, Take a Book" book box in her name to continue her legacy of nurturing young learners. She also built treasured lifelong friendships at the J.C.C.; relationships she held close to her heart.

Travel was one of Ruthie's greatest joys. She and Peter shared countless adventures, exploring National Parks and discovering the beauty of the USA. Maine was a particular favorite destination, a place that captured Ruthie's heart and reflected her love of natural beauty and peaceful escapes. In their retirement years, travel became their cherished rhythm of life.

At home, Ruthie's creativity and care were on full display. Her house was always beautifully decorated for the seasons, and her doll room was a special reflection of her interests, connecting her with fellow collectors across the world. Yet more than anything, Ruthie found her greatest happiness and pride in her family. Her cherished husband Peter, her sons Jonathan and Jordan, Jonathan's wife Dannielle, and her beloved dogs (Cody and Muggles) were the center of her rich and joyful life.

Ruthie is survived by her husband, Peter; her sons, Jonathan (Dannielle) and Jordan; her sister, Anita "Neat" Callaghan Boliver; her brother, Harold Callaghan; her sister-in-law, Ann; and many cherished nieces, nephews, and friends who will carry her memory forward. She is reunited in eternal peace with her parents, Vincent and Kathryn, and her brothers Bobby, Steve, Bryan, and Jim, along with her brother-in-law Dannie Boliver and sisters-in-law Jeanne, Gigi, and Sandy Callaghan.

Ruthie's life was defined by patience, love, and a nurturing heart. She will be remembered not only for the way she cared for children and guided young lives, but also for the way she made everyone she met feel special, valued, and loved. Like the lighthouses she so admired, Ruthie's presence was a steady beacon, offering light, comfort, and direction to those around her. Her love illuminated the lives of her family, her students, and her friends, and her light will continue to shine, guiding us home.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, September 20th from 10 AM to 12 PM at the Glenville Funeral Home, 9 Glenridge Rd., immediately followed by a funeral service by Pastor Deron Milleville. Online condolences may be made at glenvillefuneralhome.com