Ruth E. Leopold

a talented woman with many friends. While she was known for her work as a music teacher, and her passion for teaching piano, Ruth later moved into HR, ultimately becoming the Personnel Administrator at Pace University in Manhattan, a perfect place for someone with a sharp mind.When she was a child her family thrived. Her father had built a successful business after immigrating to the US and she and her younger sister, Linny, lived a close life. Ruth was a fabulous big sister. Despite a 5 year age difference, Ruth would take her sister with her whenever she went out with friends, which demonstrated the bond they had.Later, as a caring parent, Ruth would stir the pot with spelling bees and math competitions in which she would pit her children, Amy and David against each other using flash cards. The score was never kept, but the task was fun, engaging, and built competitive spirit. Cooking was a particular interest, both for her and the very appreciative rest of the family. She was extremely good at it, and holiday meals were flavorful experiences. Ruth was also active with the League of Women Voters and wrote their regular newsletter.When her husband, Robert (Bob), retired, the two of them relocated to Chapel Hill and started a new phase of their lives together. Here, they enjoyed the best of all worlds, golf for Bob, and symphony and theater for both of them, and they took full advantage. Eventually Amy joined them moving just 10 minutes away, but unfortunately, some years later, in 2012, passed away unexpectedly. Her loss was devastating.Years later, Bob became stricken with an illness and passed in July 2018, but not before his son, David, promised he would stay and help take care of Ruth who had been diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment and had several concerning health issues.Over the course of the next 6 years, Ruth and her son grew remarkably close, in ways neither of them could have ever dreamed of. It was a progression that built upon itself with each new day. They laughed often, strolled the grounds, and played cards regularly, and despite having progressed to full dementia, Ruth would often win at Rummy...legitimately, and very often with a Straight Flush.But on April 23, 2024 at 11:27pm Ruth succumbed to her illnesses with her son by her side.She will be dearly missed. I love you, Mom.Read Obituary