Patricia Ruth

We announce the passing of Patricia Ann "Pat" Ruth, age 87, on Friday, March 28, 2025 after a valiant battle with cancer. Pat passed away peacefully at Providence Village, fortified by the sacraments of the Holy Church.

A Rosary will be recited and Mass of Christian Burial celebrated 10:00 a.m. Saturday, April 5, 2025 at St. Mary's Catholic Church of the Assumption in West, Texas, with Rev. Timothy Vaverek as celebrant. Pat will be laid to rest at St. Mary's Cemetery.

Pat was born on April 5, 1937, in Hartley, Iowa, to the late John Edward and Pearl (Prendergast) Maguire. She spent her formative years in Hartley, attending high school and cherishing summers at Lake Okoboji in northern Iowa. After high school, Pat pursued business studies in Minnesota, which led to her first job at the University of Minnesota.

In what would become a defining moment in her life, Pat accepted an invitation from her Aunt Agnes to house-sit in Hermosa Beach, California. Joined by her best friend, Joann, the two embarked on a journey that would lead Pat to a lifelong love of California. She soon found employment as the executive assistant to the vice president of Mattel Toys, where she dedicated decades of service with excellence.

Pat's faith was a cornerstone of her existence. As a devoted Catholic, she was an active parishioner of St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Austin, Texas. She lived out her beliefs through her unwavering support of the pro-life movement, attending numerous marches and her faith inspired those around her. Beyond her work and faith, Pat found joy in traveling. After moving to Waco, she especially loved visiting her former stomping grounds in California. She also enjoyed trips to Ireland, Israel and Italy. One of her most cherished adventures was sailing with her dear friend Joann and Joann's husband, Terry Turk, from California, through the Panama Canal, and on to several Caribbean islands.

Pat will be remembered for her sharp wit, as well as for her candid and unfiltered approach to life. She spoke with honesty, and laughed with joy. Her legacy of faith and fortitude will live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

Family was at the heart of Pat's life. She eventually moved to Texas to be closer to her loved ones: her brother, Jim Maguire and wife Jeanie; niece, Kathleen Kruger and husband Richard and great-nephews, Matt Kruger and wife Julie, Andrew Kruger and wife Rebekah and Jason Kruger and wife Katie; niece, Susan Cooper and great-nephew Chris Cooper and wife Kristina; nephew, Brian Maguire and wife Tracey; great-niece, Molly Maguire; and great-nephew Brennan Maguire; as well as six great-great nieces and two great-great nephews.

Pallbearers are Brian Maguire, Brennan Maguire, Kyle Stanislav, Scott Stanislav, Richard Kruger and Chris Cooper.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Pat's memory to Care Net Pregnancy Center in Waco, Texas.