Ruth Locke Robertson Levy, a feisty, intelligent soul who brightened the lives of those around her, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2023.
Born on August 22, 1944, in Boston, Mass., her life was a testament to her enduring strength and joyous spirit.
She is survived by a loving family who cherished every moment spent with her. Norman Levy, her devoted husband of 51 years, stood by her side in a partnership of love and mutual respect. Her daughters, Elizabeth Levy and Catherine Pargeter, inherited her strength and her joy for life. Her sons-in-law, Justin Pargeter and Ryan Bouldin, were not only family but friends who admired her greatly. She instilled in her grandchildren, Flory and Perrin Bouldin and Ada and Clara Pargeter, the same sense of curiosity and zest for life that she carried in her heart.
After earning a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from the University of Massachusetts, she embarked on a distinguished career. She spent 30 years as an Auditor for the US Government Accountability Office, where her keen eye for detail and commitment to integrity were well-respected. She went on to serve as the Deputy Inspector General for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority.
Ruth Levy’s interests were as varied as they were fulfilling. At her book club, she shared her love for literature and engaged in thoughtful discussions that extended beyond the pages of the books. Her love for the simple pleasures in life — a day at the beach, the taste of ice cream, the company of her family — served as a reminder of the beauty in everyday moments. She often stopped at the crest of ski slopes to admire the landscape. In her tree identification walks at Rye Nature Center, she found joy in the act of learning and discovery. Gardening was another of her cherished activities. Although she never succeeded in coaxing a hydrangea to bloom, her garden was a testament to her perseverance and hope.
Despite battling numerous illnesses over the years and undergoing dialysis for 15 of those years, Ruth’s indomitable spirit never wavered. She faced each challenge with grit and determination. Her intelligence was matched by her warmth, and her spirit was an inspiration to everyone she met. She navigated life’s twists and turns with grace and dignity and left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.
Donations in Ruth Levy’s memory may be made to The National Kidney Foundation.