Obituary of Ruth E. Bruins

Ruth E. Bruins, 70, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2024. Ruth was born on April 17, 1953 to the late Richard F. and Evelyn (Olsen) Davis in Rutland, VT.

Following high school, Ruth moved to Albany, NY to pursue her passion for nursing, graduating from Albany Memorial School of Nursing and earning her Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Russell Sage College thereafter.  Ruth was a dedicated registered nurse for over forty years, until her retirement in 2021. She was well-known for her compassion, knowledge, and vivacity, serving the community at Albany Memorial Hospital, St. Peter’s Hospital, the Albany Memorial School of Nursing, and the New York State Department of Civil Service: Employee Health Services. Committed not only to care but to the nursing community, Ruth was actively involved with the Albany Memorial School of Nursing Alumni Association for several years, serving as president and treasurer.

Ruth was an avid arts-and-crafts enthusiast,enrolling in continuing education courses with her friends to create handmade custom greeting cards. Among her family and friends, she was also regarded for her skillful crocheting—creating blankets, shawls, scarves, coasters, and more—spreading love with items “made with love.” Ruth also found enjoyment in playing games, doing puzzles, and solving Sudoku.

Ruth was a people-person—able to strike up conversations and share laughter with everyone—delighting in time with her children, family, and friends. She and her presence, joy, and unwavering strength will be deeply missed. 

Ruth was predeceased by her husband of 34 years, Gysbert “Bert” Bruins, Jr., and her brother, Richard C. Davis.  She is survived by her three loving children who will miss her dearly: Jill (Josh) Bruins, Frederick (Nichole) Bruins, and Anne (Dan) Carney; her devoted siblings: Margaret (David) Gelinas, Mary (Cameron) Little, Susan Witt, James (Patricia) Davis, Judith Carrasco, and Peter Davis; and numerous nieces and nephews. Ruth also leaves behind a lifetime of friends.

Relatives and friends are invited and may call on Monday, February 12, 2024 from 4:00-6:30pm at the W.J. Lyons, Jr. Funeral Home, 1700 Washington Avenue, Rensselaer. A funeral service will follow at 6:30pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to a charity of your choice.