Ruth Marie Ross Battistone

Ruth Marie Ross Battistone, 93, of McMurray, passed away peacefully with her family by her side Sunday, July 20, 2025. She was born September 23, 1931 in Houston. Ruth was a popular and dedicated student, excelling both in academics and extracurriculars as a member of the marching band. After high school, she worked as a bookkeeper for a local department store. In the early 1950s she met a handsome young Marine, Carl L. Battistone of Muse, while working at the Fireman's Fair hot dog stand. They were married in 1953 and were blessed with six children. Ruth was a loving, devoted mother and homemaker, serving as the family's steady anchor amidst her husband's numerous deployments and 14 moves throughout the United States and abroad. Upon Carl's retirement from the U.S. Marine Corps, the couple spent many years traveling internationally with the Lions Club and hosting their many family members and friends at their home in Bethel Park, where they lived until late 2024. A devout Catholic and loving and attentive grandmother to 21 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren, Ruth was the epitome of generosity, humble service, and unrivaled patience. She had an impeccable ability to remember even the smallest details of her children's and grandchildren's lives and was known for giving each grandchild a $20 bill on their birthday, always telling them to "go buy yourself some ice cream!" Her gentleness, hospitality, and warm giggle created the fabric of joyful family gatherings characterized by food, laughter, and deep love. Ruth was predeceased by her parents, Ann and Frank Ross of Houston. She is survived by her loving husband of 72 years, Col. Carl L. Battistone; six children, Ann (Doug), Lisa (Chris), Carl (Dena), Dona (Eric), Mari (Roger), and Marc (Tammie); and brother, Sam (the late Marge) Ross. She also leaves behind her adored grandchildren and great- grandchildren; and cherished in-laws. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to your local Lions Club. Family and friends are welcome from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, July 24, in the Paul Henney Cremation and Funeral Tributes, Inc., 4470 Library Road, Bethel Park. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, July 25, in Our Lady of Hope Parish/St. Valentine Church, Bethel Park, followed by a committal service at 11:30 a.m. at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, 2900 Washington Road, McMurray.