Ruth Brown, age 86, passed away peacefully in her sleep on February 9, 2026.
Born in Germany in 1939, Ruth lived a life shaped by resilience, devotion to family, and quiet strength. Over the years, she made her home in Tampa and Lakeland, Florida, and later in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where she remained close to those she loved most.
Ruth was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose greatest joy came from her family. She is survived by her daughters, Tina Holt and Tammy Nist and stepdaughter Lydia Mills; her grandchildren, Morgan Holt, Aubrey Nist, Emily, and Luke Mills (Courtney); and her great-grandchildren Violet, Hayden, and Ashlyn and her sons-in-law, Michael Holt, Raymond Nist and Rick Mills.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gene Brown, and her brothers, Walter and Manfred Schoelzel and her mother, Martha Mende.
Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.