Ruthellen M. Corbett

Ruthellen Morgan Corbett, 82, of Avon, devoted wife of F. Bruce Corbett for 62 years, passed away Monday December 30, 2024 at her home surrounded by family. Ruthellen and Bruce shared a deep and enduring partnership, building a life of family, love, and mutual support that spanned decades. Born in Bridgeport to Allan E. and Ann (McMellon) Morgan, Ruthellen was raised in Nichols and graduated from Harding High School. She earned her BA from Lycoming College and her MA in Education from Central Connecticut State University. Ruthellen began her career as a second-grade teacher in Burlington before raising her children. She later resumed her professional life at the University of Hartford where she taught English as a Second Language, treating her students like family. Ruthellen and Bruce were active members of Memorial United Methodist Church in Avon where they shared a spiritual home and community. She enjoyed her time as a Girl Scout leader and later as a docent with her friends at the New Britain Museum of American Art. Ruthellen had a passion for travel, often accompanied by her daughter, brother or friends, and she cherished coffee with her granddaughters, and lively political discussions over an IPA. A fond memory for Ruthellen was the cross-country trip in 1982 in which she navigated (before GPS!) the family to national parks, museums, and other sights, one campground at a time. Her love of family shone brightly in her cooking, particularly her famous mac and cheese, requested by her grandchildren at every family gathering. For years, she prepared meals using homegrown vegetables long before organic became trendy. Ruthellen was a constant source of love and support to Bruce and their family, and she was proud of her children and grandchildren with their school, sports, scouting and other endeavors. Her courage in living with Parkinson's Disease during her last few years was a testament to her strength and grace. She leaves behind her beloved husband Bruce and their children: Elizabeth Corbett and her husband David Goforth of Lenoir City, TN; Bruce Corbett, Jr. and his wife Maribel Corbett of Simsbury; and David Corbett and his wife Natalie Corbett of Avon; She is also survived by her grandchildren Xavier, Callie, Grant and Erin; her brother Allan Morgan, Jr., and his wife Sophronia Ward of Knoxville, TN; her brother-in-law David Corbett of Avon; a nephew, several nieces, and dear friends. A memorial service celebrating Ruthellen's life will be held on Saturday, March 8, at 11am at Memorial United Methodist Church, 867 West Avon Road, Avon, with a reception following in the fellowship hall. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ruthellen's honor may be made to Memorial United Methodist Church or the Parkinson Research Foundation. For directions or to leave condolences, please visit www.carmonfuneralhome.com.