Obituary of Ruth W. Burke

Ruth W. Burke (Russell) died peacefully surrounded by family on January 24, 2016 in Vineland, NJ at the age of 85. Ruth is survived by 4 of her children: Deborah Rizzo and husband John of Vineland, NJ, Dianne Mace and husband Edward of Springfield, VA, Dorothy R. Burke of Vineland, NJ and Dennis Burke and wife Tonia of Chesapeake, VA. She is also survived by 20 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband William H. Burke of Pittsgrove, NJ, son David J. Burke of Upper Deerfield, NJ, parents James and Clara Russell and siblings Wesley, Charles and Dorothy. Ruth was born on June 4, 1930 in Paterson, NJ to James and Clara Russell. She graduated from Central High School in 1948. She married William H. Burke on June 2, 1951. Over 18 years, the couple welcomed 5 children into their home and Ruth set about teaching them family values. Her children remember her as a kind, religious, supportive and loving mother who encouraged them to pursue their goals. After moving to Pittsgrove, NJ in 1982 Ruth began working for PSE&G as a data entry specialist. Ruth loved playing the piano. She was a generous, caring and out-going individual who loved helping in the community. She was an active and dedicated member of her church community and often volunteered. Above all, she loved being surrounded by her children, grandchildren, great-grand children and pets. A Funeral Liturgy will be celebrated on Monday, February 1, 2016 at 10:30am at Christ the Good Shepherd Parish, St. Isidore's Church, 1655 Magnolia Road, Vineland, NJ. Ruth will be laid to rest at Olivet Cemetery, Pittsgrove, NJ. Family and friends will be received on Sunday, January 31, 2016 from 3pm to 5pm at the DeMarco-Luisi Funeral Home, 2755 S. Lincoln Ave. Vineland and again on Monday morning from 9am to 10:15am at the church. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Ruth's life. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, Cumberland County SPCA or another organization that is dear to you in Ruth's name.