Ruth Bell Cole, lovingly known as “Ruby”, passed away peacefully at her home on June 4, 2024.

Ruth Delta Bell was born August 25, 1957 in Norfolk, Virginia, to Susie Cory Bell and Edward Dear Bell. Ruth is survived by her husband, Gary; their two children, Geoffrey (Annesley) and Matthew (Kaitlyn); and two grandchildren, Grayson and Henry. She is also survived by her sister, Jena Whetsel. Ruth was predeceased by her parents as well as sisters Marilyn “Cookie” Dusseau and Carolyn McClain.

A graduate of Maury High School, Ruth attended Old Dominion University before earning her MBA at William & Mary. Her entrepreneurial spirit served her well, whether as a diner waitress or a Chief Financial Officer. Among her many accomplishments, she was a founding member of an investment advisory firm where she worked for 35 years.

After an adventure-filled courtship, Ruth and Gary were happily married in 1988. They settled down in Virginia Beach, raising Geoff and Matt along with a beloved assortment of dogs. Ruth encouraged her boys in everything they pursued, and she was front row at every game, event, or show. She was their biggest cheerleader and considered her sons the greatest accomplishment of her life.

Ruth’s faith-filled kindness and thoughtful generosity ensured that she never met a stranger. Whether it was the boys who came for band practice or the ladies who showed up for Bunco, Ruth made sure that everyone knew they were welcome in her home, and she treated each person like family.

The family will host a celebration of Ruth’s life on Sunday, June 23rd from 1:00pm – 3:00pm at the Princess Anne Country Club. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Virginia Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad.