Ruth Ann "Tudy" Gordillo

Ruth Ann Gordillo (née Smith), affectionately known as Tudy, was reunited with her beloved husband in heaven on June 21, 2024 at the age of 86. Born on July 5, 1937, in Lima, Ohio, she dedicated her life to nurturing and caring for others, both in her professional and personal life.

Ruth grew up in Lima and graduated from Lima Central High School in 1955. She continued her education at St. Rita's Hospital School of Nursing, graduating in 1958. She embarked on a fulfilling career as a nurse, initially serving as a school nurse. She then took a long hiatus to raise her seven children in Lakewood, Ohio, before moving to home health care with the Cleveland Clinic after her last child went to college.

Ruth was an active community member and served in leadership roles in many of her volunteer activities. She served as a PTA president, president of the Women's Auxiliary for the Academy of Medicine of Cleveland, and president for the Board of Trustees for the Lakewood United Methodist Church, where she was a longtime member for more than 50 years. Ruth volunteered in many capacities at church over the years. She and her husband enjoyed being members of the Aldersgate Sunday School Class.

Ruth was a fabulous cook and loved to prepare big holiday meals for her family. When she managed to carve out some time for herself from her busy life as wife and mother, Ruth enjoyed bowling, playing bridge and tennis - activities that reflected her spirited and engaging personality. She brought warmth and compassion to every interaction, embodying the true spirit of a caregiver.

Ruth is survived by her sister, Mary Jo Pickett, and her brother, James D. Smith (Linda); her children, Gregory (Deborah), Gayle, Christine (Hugh Campbell), Nancy (Bruce Metzger), Daniel (Lesley), Matthew (Desiree), and Michael; and her cherished 17 grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Manuel Gordillo, to whom she was married for 60 years, her mother, Ruth Rumo, and brother, Larry Smith.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 26, from 5-7 PM at Busch Funeral Home, 163 Avon-Belden Road, Avon Lake, Ohio. Funeral services will take place on Thursday, June 27, at 1 PM at Lakewood United Methodist Church, 15700 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, Ohio. Internment will follow at Lakewood Park Cemetery, 22025 Detroit Road, Rock River, Ohio.

Contributions may be made to the Lakewood United Methodist Church, honoring Ruth's commitment to her faith and community. Busch Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.