Ruth M. Duprey

Ruth M. Duprey, 87, went to be with the Lord on May 19, 2012. She was born on September 21, 1924 in Staten Island, New York, the daughter of the late William McGann and Mary Gogan McGann. At 16, Ruth moved with her parents from Staten Island to Norfolk where she lived until she met her future husband, Bill, who was originally from Littleton, New Hampshire. Ruth and Bill lived in Norfolk until 1959 when they moved to Virginia Beach and remained there until their passing.

A loving mother, devoted wife, and kind friend, Ruth was a member of St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church in Virginia Beach. She worked for many years at Metropolitan Life before retiring to enjoy life with Bill, which included gardening and visiting family. Ruth was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 66 years, William “Bill” Duprey and their son William “Mickey” Duprey.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Sharon L. Duprey of Norfolk and Marianne Duprey Smith and husband Ron of Richmond; grandson, Michael Duprey; great-granddaughter, Hailey Duprey and great-grandson, Brice Duprey, all of Simpsonville, SC, and a host of other loving relatives and friends.

A true survivor and brave warrior, Ruth bested ovarian cancer and later breast cancer back when as she put it, “There were only four oncologists in the phone book.” Dr. Edward George marveled at her tenacity, but she shrugged off the compliments and continued onward. Ruth was also pleased to have the distinction of being the very first patient of Dr. Amir Hajimomenian and he reminded her of that each time she came for a visit.

The family will receive friends and family on Wednesday, May 23, 2012 from 7:00 – 8:00 pm in Smith and Williams Funeral Home, Kempsville Chapel, 4889 Princess Anne Road in Virginia Beach. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, May 24, 2012 at 12 pm in St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church, 5345 Virginia Beach Blvd., in Virginia Beach. Burial will follow in Rosewood Memorial Park in Virginia Beach.