Ruth Ann Harrel

Ruth Ann Harrel (Haskett), 62, of Suffolk, Virginia, passed away peacefully on February 27th, 2026. She was born April 23, 1963, in Norfolk, VA, to the late James Lee Haskett and Jeannine Frances Haskett (Forehand). She is survived by her loving husband of 43 years, Stephen Harrel, her constant partner and greatest supporter, with whom she shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and devotion; her son, Dustin Michael Harrel (Christy), the pride and joy of her life, who carries her values of kindness and strength forward each day; and her beloved grandchildren, Reed, Carson, and Brooks, who were truly the light of her life. She is survived by her brothers: Michael Haskett (Mary Ann) and Robert Haskett (Susan); her sister and best friend, Nini Baker (Rand); her nieces and nephews, Chelsea Smith (David), Chelsea Anzaldua (Aaron), Eric Parlett (Demi), Haley Haskett, Logan Baker, and Will Haskett; along with her great nieces and nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. 

Ruth was a 1981 graduate of Kempsville High School and earned her bachelor’s degree in Education from Norfolk State University, followed by a master’s degree from Cambridge College. For more than 30 years, Ruth devoted herself to teaching, touching countless lives through her classroom. She believed that every child mattered and worked tirelessly to help her students reach their own potential. Through patience, compassion, and unwavering kindness, she truly changed the world—one student at a time. Known lovingly as Ruthie and “Sissy”, she found joy in life’s simple and meaningful pleasures. She loved walking the shores of Cape Charles in search of sea glass, exploring thrift shops for unique treasures, and expressing her creativity through all kinds of crafts. She had a special affection for all things Peanuts and Snoopy, a love that reflected her playful and bright spirit. She generously shared her time and heart through Scouting, Bennett’s Creek Little League, and in the nursery at St. Andrew’s Church. Though her time with us was far too short, Ruth leaves behind a legacy that will live on in the many lives she inspired, encouraged, and uplifted. 

A memorial service will be held at Little’s Funeral Home on March 28th, 2026 at 3 PM. 1515 South Church Street, Smithfield VA, 23430. In honor of Ruth’s bright spirit, we ask that you please wear something bright. In lieu of flowers please consider purchasing a children’s book or school supplies to be donated locally in Ruth’s honor at the link below. https://www.amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/3VGJKEC7M7FPZ?ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_ggr-subnav-share_HH9P96GWA4FVD3410XFJ&language=en-US. Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com