Ruth Mary Zacharias

Born in Buffalo, New York, in 1940, Ruth was the beloved daughter of Cecil and Magdalene Colvin and grew up alongside her brothers, Donald and Robert. Her life’s journey later took her to Tennessee and then to Florida, where she met the love of her life, John Zacharias. Ruth began her professional life as a teacher, but after becoming a mother, she dedicated herself wholeheartedly to creating a warm and nurturing home for her family.

Ruth was a devoted wife and exceptional mother to her five children. Her life centered around her family, and she joyfully supported her children in their many school activities, sports, and interests. Her presence, encouragement, and steady love were constants they could always count on.

In her spare time, Ruth enjoyed bowling, tennis, and singing, which brought her great joy and lasting friendships. She was a longtime member of the Sweet Adelines barbershop chorus and shared her musical gifts in her church choir.

A devout Catholic, Ruth lived her faith every day and served as a profound example of kindness, humility, devotion, and integrity to her children, grandchildren, extended family, and all who knew her.

Ruth is preceded in death by: her parents, her brother Robert, her husband, John Zacharias, Sr., and their son, Joseph.

Ruth is survived by her children: John and his wife Uta (von Recum), Michael and his wife Terri (Saintsing), Matthew and his wife Melissa (Deck), Mark and his wife Dominique (Snider), Christine (Zacharias) and her husband Christopher Dignan; grandchildren: Jamie, Kira, Evan, Allison, Oliver, Trevor, Brandon, Ethen, Stanley, Anthony, Mary Sophia, Thomas, Blaise, Genevieve, Mariana, Joseph, and Brendan.

A wake will be held on Thursday, April 16, 2026, from 3-6 pm at Woody Funeral Home, 1020 Huguenot Rd, Midlothian, VA 23113.

A Requiem Mass is scheduled for Friday, April 17, 2026, at 10:00 am at Our Lady of Fatima Chapel, 5217 Futura Ave, Richmond, VA 23231. There will be a short reception at the Chapel after the funeral, followed by the graveside burial ceremony at the cemetery at St. Thomas Aquinas Seminary, 1208 Archbishop Lefebvre Avenue, Dillwyn, VA 23936.

Flowers and condolences can be sent to Woody Funeral Home, 1020 Huguenot Rd., Midlothian, VA 23113.