Ruth Thomas passed away peacefully, with her husband and daughters by her side, on February 16, 2024. She was 93.
Born in Elbing, Germany on August 1, 1930, she was the daughter of Benno and Dorothea Krawielitzki. Ruth spent most of her youth in Berlin, where she married Alexander Thomas.
After several years of marriage, with just their suitcases and their Boxer, and no family to rely on, the young couple pursued their dream to move to New York. Ruth quickly found a job as a fashion model while helping her husband begin his career on Wall Street. They settled in Forest Hills, where they made many lifelong friends and adapted to the American lifestyle. Together, they lovingly raised their two daughters in New Rochelle and Scarsdale, and later moved to Westchester Country Club where they have been members for over fifty years.
Ruth Thomas had many passions. As a young child, she could easily play the piano by ear, and as an adult loved music and dancing. She enjoyed taking long walks, golf, and swimming, and loved dogs, flowers, and sports cars. By far, her favorite hobby was playing bridge.
She will be remembered for her devotion to her family, her beautiful smile, and her kindness to all.
Ruth Thomas is survived by her adoring husband of 72 years, Alex Thomas, and two daughters, Gloria (Grant) Stoddart and Monica (Jerry) Knorr; two grandsons, Eric and Alex Knorr; three step-grandchildren, Sarah Dietsch, Caroline Farina, and Michael Stoddart; sister-in-law Hilla Schaefer; niece Irene (Klaus) Schaefer; and nephew Cristian (Petra) Schaefer. She was predeceased by her brother, Rolf Schaefer.
A private ceremony for immediate family will be held at a later date. Her final resting place will be Greenwood Union Cemetery in Rye.
Donations in Ruth Thomas’ memory may be made to any well-respected animal welfare organization that helps dogs.
