January 11, 1947 – July 2, 2024
Ruth Marion Jennette, 77, passed away on Tuesday, July 2, 2024 at home surrounded by family and friends.
Ruth was born January 11, 1947 in Fall River, Massachusetts to William Horace McMillian and Irene Blanche McMillian. She was predeceased by her parents, her brother, and the love of her life, husband of 32 years, Donnie Lee Jennette, whom she waited nearly 24 years to join in our Father’s heavenly kingdom. She is survived by her daughter Teresa Saulnier, son-in-law Thomas Saulnier, and grandsons Mark and Andrew Saulnier, as well as many extended family members, nieces, nephews, cousins, and her aunt Claudette Michaud, who all love her dearly. The family extends a special thank you to Ruth’s niece, Jenny Hochreiter, for her love and support in helping to care for Ruth during her final days.
Ruth retired from the Virginia Department of Health after nearly 51 years of dedicated service. She was a member of Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Virginia Beach where she also served as a Lector and Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. She was once named Volunteer of the Decade at Star of the Sea Catholic School, where she organized and ran bingo every Thursday night for many years to raise funds for the school, making it possible for more children to receive a Catholic education.
“Mama Ruth” was devoted to her family and was a friend to many. She had a way of making everyone feel special and unconditionally loved.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, July 13th 2:00-4:00 PM at H. D. Oliver Funeral Apartments Laskin Road. After cremation, a funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, July 20th at 1:00 PM at Star of the Sea Catholic Church. The final resting place of both Ruthie and Donnie will be in the columbarium at Star of the Sea.
Memorial donations may be made to Star of the Sea Catholic School, Star of the Sea Catholic Church, or Hope for Life Rescue, all in Virginia Beach. Please visit www.hdoliver.com to leave online condolences.
