Alberta Ruth Shephard

Ruth is survived by her loving family: husband, Steve Shephard; her sons, Jon Raynor and Christopher Raynor; her brother Albert Marsico; her step-children Brendan Armitage, Bill Raynor (Denise), Debbie Raynor Boyles, Sheila Raynor Marino (Lenny), Yvette Shephard Shaqir (Ibrahim), and Steve Shephard (Stacey); many step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her nieces Richelle Marsico and Julie (Robert) Caraballo; and her dearest friend, Katie Reed, as well as many other friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Ruth Marsico, her brother, Jon Marsico, and her stepson, Todd Raynor.

Ruth will be remembered by many for her love of all things Elvis. She was so much more than that, though: Ruth “Ruthie” was born March 27, 1945. She lived her childhood in River Vale New Jersey, where she made many memories, spending time with her large and loving family of uncles, aunts, and cousins.

She then moved to Maryland, where she began her long and successful career as a bookkeeper and property manager. She was extremely proud of her business, and worked until the end of her life.

The things she was most proud of, however, were her two sons, Jon and Chris, whom she had with her former husband, Don Raynor. They were truly her most treasured gifts.

In 1992, she met Steve Shephard, and the two married in 1994. They focused on spending time with their children and blending their families. As the families grew, Ruth and Steve enjoyed traveling, and making friends wherever they went.

Ultimately, Ruth will be remembered, by all who had the pleasure to know her, as an incredibly loving, caring, and generous person. She will be missed!