Mrs. Saunders was born on May 11, 1930 in Pine Run (New Sewickley Township), Pa. to Clifford and Eva (Ackley) Young. She graduated in 1948 from Wellsville Central School as that year’s Valedictorian.
Ruth had a varied work experience. She worked for many years at the Perry Knitting Mill in Fillmore as a seamstress. She also worked at Munro Games in Arcade as a game’s assembler and later as a home health care aide in Wellsville. Additionally, she worked as a fabric and sewing notions sales person at the Rag Shop in Olean.
Ruth is survived by a son, David B. Nicholson of Belfast; a daughter, Lori Kiley of Wayland; two grandchildren, David H. Nicholson and Hollie Nicholson; four great grandchildren, Dezeree Owens, Jason (Amber) Kiley, Scott (Augusta Martin) Kiley and Jennifer (Dana Jr.) Regatuso; 14 great-great grandchildren, Kason Kiley, Morgan Kiley, Madison Kiley, Karmen Kiley, Angel (Alex) Lehman, Keith Lehman, David Kiley, Christa Kiley, Raina Kiley, Tyler Kiley, Gage Martin, Skylar Martin, Autumn Martin and Kylie Regatuso; one great-great-great granddaughter, Aleana Lehman; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.
She was predeceased by four sisters, Pearl Anthony, Gladys Saunders, Katie Peckham, and Frances Western; and one son-in-law, Ronald Kiley.
Ruth gained great enjoyment from sewing. She also delighted in gardening, both flowers and vegetables. She loved the family gatherings and her home was the standard location of the family Sunday dinners.
She was a member of the United Methodist Church as well as the Salvation Army.
A memorial graveside service will be held on her birthday, Sunday (May 11) at 2:00 p.m. at Oramel Cemetery where her ashes will be laid to rest beside her parents.
Arrangements are under the direction of Baker-Swan Funeral Home in Wellsville/Scio. Online condolences may be offered at www.baker-swan.com.
Memorial contributions in Ruth’s name may be made to The Arc Allegany-Steuben, Attn: Kyle Rock of Green Machine (Special Olympics), One Arc Way, Bath, NY 14810. © 2025 Baker-Swan Funeral Home.
