Ruth Mildred Bossidy Dousay, a vibrant and unconventional soul, born on April 8, 1954,
peacefully left this world on December 27, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, love, and
a life well-lived.
Ruthie, a proud 12th generation American, spent her formative years in Wallingford,
Connecticut, where her adventurous spirit began to shine. In a testament to her determination
and trailblazing nature, she attended Wilcox Technical High School as one of the first young
women to integrate the formerly all-boys career preparatory school. Despite being mandated to
complete the cosmetology program, Ruthie refused to conform to societal expectations and
found innovative ways to break the mold.
After graduating from Wilcox, Ruthie continued to forge her unique path by enlisting in the U.S.
Navy. It was here, on a co-ed softball team over 50 years ago, that she met the love of her life, a
handsome sailor from Louisiana by the name of Roger Dousay. Their enduring love story thrived
for 48 remarkable years, a testament to the bond they shared.
Ruthie's dreams of a career in the Navy were tragically cut short by a severe back injury, forcing
her to medically retire as a YN2 after three surgeries in two years at the tender age of 30. Yet,
she faced this adversity with unyielding strength, refusing to let her disability define or limit her.
In 1996, Ruthie became a charter servicewoman registered in the U.S. Military Women’s
Memorial.
As a mother, Ruthie was the epitome of unwavering support and encouragement. She was a
constant presence, attending every Livingston Lady Lions basketball game and offering
guidance during the challenges of exams and college applications. Her approach to life was
characterized by a determination to teach herself anything she didn't know how to do, imparting
this valuable lesson on her daughter, who went on to graduate from Texas A&M and eventually
earned a doctorate from the University of Georgia.
Besides her husband of 48 years, she is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Tonia Dousay
and Kris Marriott of Anchorage, Alaska; a sister, Betsy McCann of Wallingford, Connecticut;
three grandcritters, Major (dog), Mister (cat), and Mary Jane (bearded dragon); a niece and
nephew-in-law, Jen and Tommy Rascati of North Branford, Connecticut; a nephew and
niece-in-law, Travis and Jennifer McCann of Farmington, Connecticut; a nephew, Joshua Cody
of Wallingford, Connecticut; and several grand nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death
by her brother, James E. Bossidy, and parents, James B. and Nancy Bossidy.
A Celebratory Send Off for Ruthie will be held at 6:00 PM, Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at the Whirlwind Club, in Livingston, Texas. |
