

Ruth Ann Rossi, 86, of Fort Myers, Florida, formerly of Wheeling, West Virginia, went home to her Heavenly Father on Sunday, October 25, 2026. She passed suddenly at Hope Hospice House following a recent cancer diagnosis. Born on February 20, 1940, in Wheeling, West Virginia, Ruth was the cherished daughter of the late Lawrence Parker Wolfe and Loretta Boring Wolfe. She was predeceased by her beloved brother, William Wolfe; her sisters, Esther Loretta Wolfe and Audrey Wolfe Taylor (and her husband, Bill); as well as her precious grandchildren, William F. “Ricky” Metz Jr. and Kristina Miles.
Ruth lived a life defined by grace, hospitality, and Christian faith. She was a legend as the final matriarch of her family. She was a constant source of love, prayer, and encouragement. She had a generous heart and a remarkable gift for serving others, finding great joy in preparing warm meals and baking homemade cakes for friends and family especially in times of need.
A woman of vibrant spirit and elegance, Ruth had a wonderful eye for fashion and was always beautifully dressed. She enjoyed working at Zipperer Farms Inc., Horne’s of Wheeling and as a Beautician. She was delighted to shop and share countless joyful hours playing cards—especially competing fiercely in Euchre, Bridge and Rummy—with her dear friends and family.
Ruth leaves behind a large and loving family who will forever cherish her memory, including her four adoring children: Roger J. Metz Jr. and wife Desiree, Loretta K. Weigand, Donna M. Oates and husband John, and William F. Metz Sr. and wife Michelle. And Her Nieces and Nephews: Esther Taylor, Larry Taylor (Toni), Lou Ann Dawson (Jim), Clara Zatta (Ted)and Birdie Guio.
Ruth was the proud grandmother of seven: William Robert Weigand (Sam), Lacie Paige Metz, Brianne Hart (Ben), Kathryn Krakowka (Jono), Roger J. “Jamie” Metz III, Joshua Parker Oates, Delani Marie Treharn (Justin), and Taylor Kaye Oates (Alison). Ruth was also blessed with several wonderful great-grandchildren, and she treasured every precious moment she was able to spend with them in person and over FaceTime, especially with Tommy, Billy, and her adoring Adalyn. She enjoyed time with her devoted friend and companion, Chuck Frohnapfel, who brought immense happiness to her later years.
A memorial celebrating Ruth’s life will be announced to take place in West Virginia in the spring of 2027. Following the service, her earthly remains will be laid to rest at Short Creek Cemetery with her family.
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