Ruth Louise Kelsey

Ruth Louise Kelsey, born September 26, 1935, in Conneaut, Ohio, to Celia and Hjalmar Moisio, passed away peacefully on February 17, 2026.

Ruth and her two sisters, Eleanor and Martha, relocated to Southern California with their mother as pre-teens where they built a new life for themselves.

She married Howard Thomas Kelsey in 1956 and they shared a devoted marriage for 60 years until his passing in 2016. Together, they raised two sons: Patrick and Thomas. Tragically, they lost their son Thomas in 1996 to complications from lymphoma. This profound loss inspired Ruth to become an avid supporter of the Lymphoma Research Foundation.

When her sons' were old enough, Ruth ventured to an enjoyable and fulfilling career with the Conejo Valley Unified School District, serving as a Finance Technician until her retirement in early 2000's. Following retirement, health challenges marked her later years, yet she remained resilient and continued to find joy in quiet, meaningful pursuits.

A kind, quiet, and reserved woman, Ruth was cherished by her long-time neighbors for her gentle nature and striking crystal blue Finnish eyes-a beautiful reflection of her heritage. In her later years she enjoyed researching her family's genealogy, tracing roots with dedication and passion. Ruth also loved puttering in her backyard, always joined by her dog Snowball (then Cappy) keeping each other company as she tended to her simple pleasures, all the while embracing a modest, grounded life. Always a dedicated Mom, Ruth enjoyed volunteering at her sons' grammar school and as a part of both her sons' baseball and football adventures. When they were t-ball and little league age she volunteered as scorekeeper (even team Mom), and then Highschool age she proudly supported them by cheering them on at every game.

Ruth has been peacefully laid to rest in between her beloved husband and beloved son.

Ruth is survived by her devoted son Patrick and his wife Kathy; her cherished grandchildren Athena Renee, Keely Renee, and Thomas Jayce; and her sister Martha Jane, her remaining sibling. She was preceded in death by her husband Howard, her son Thomas, her sister Eleanor, her two brothers, and her parents.

Ruth's legacy lives on through her family. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by those who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Lymphoma Research Foundation (https://lymphoma.org) in Ruth and her son Tom's memory, honoring her commitment to supporting those affected by the disease.

--Family in the care of Destiny Garcia, Funeral Arranger