Ruth A. Lam

Ruth Ann was born on January 1, 1953 in Newark, New Jersey. She was 68 when she passed due to cancer. Ruth was the loving daughter of Charles Mackey and Joan Sien (née Bartow).

Ruthie was the oldest of 7 children. The beloved sister of Marianne Biase (née Mackey), and was preceded in death by her brothers and sister: Charles Mackey, Robert Mackey, Joan Mackey, Richard Mackey and Andrew Mackey.

Ruthie was also survived by her nephew Paul Martinez and her nieces, whom she treasured and adored, Isabelle Biase and Gina Biase.

Ruthie (affectionately known as “Wootie” by those who loved her dearly), was one of 32 cousins. She was known as the “411” of the family. Ruthie was the connecting force that kept everyone informed about new additions to the large Bartow clan, memorial anniversaries, as well as how to get in touch with a family member and the general “how’s everybody doing”.

Ruthie had no children of her own, but she was a wonderful Godmother, Auntie and baby sitter for many of her cousins, and children of her cousins (second cousins). She also worked as a baby sitter for many other children and volunteered as a poll worker for every election. Ruthie was also the personal assistant to her dearest friend Paul Forsythe. She was loved by everyone, especially her Facebook friends.

Ruthie was an avid music lover of all kinds. She had a beautiful voice and she sang to many of her cousins and second cousins as they grew up on her lap. But, perhaps, what Ruthie was most well known for was her unending love for one type of music, and one man....ELVIS. Ruthie’s email address was: eapsno1fan (Elvis Aaron Presley’s No. 1 Fan). No words could be more true. We know that she is rejoicing to be able to see her King once again.

Ruthie once said: “As long as I have the love of my family and friends, that’s the MOST important thing to me.”

Ruthie, you will always have the love of your family and friends.

Ruthie will be cremated and no memorial service will be held at this time.