Obituary of Ruth Applegate Buffett

Ruth Buffett, a lifelong resident of Freehold, peacefully passed away on Sunday, May 27, 2018. She was born Sept. 18, 1922 in Trenton, NJ, and is predeceased by her husband Ashton and brother, Charles Applegate. Ruth is survived by her loving children; Pamela Rooney, husband Donald; Richard H., Catherine S., and Stephen A., wife Caroline; a sister, Lois Ann DeStefano; and a sister-in-law, Pat Applegate. Ruth has eight beloved grandchildren: Scott Rooney, wife Sandy, Kelli Philburn, husband Tim, Stacey Rooney, Jennifer Crancer, husband Jack, Brenden Buffett, John Buffett, wife Siobhan, Laura Ackermann, husband Mark, Mary Kate Jennings, husband Tom. 13 great grandchildren: Beth, Meg, Matt and Amanda Rooney; Katie, Andrew and Christopher Philburn; Ashtyn and Thomas Ackermann; Christopher and Nicholas Crancer; Chip and Riley Jennings. Ruth graduated from Freehold Regional High School in 1939. She attended Rider College for two years following high school then worked in a local lawyer’s office for three years. Following substitute teaching for three years in local school districts, Ruth started her full-time teaching career in 1958: one year in Howell Twp. (2nd grade), five years in Freehold Township (2nd grade) and 19 years. in Marlboro Township (Kindergarten). She Retired in 1983 after 25 years of teaching. During her teaching career she also completed her Bachelor’s Degree and graduated from Kean College (1973). Ruth was a lifelong member of the First Presbyterian Church of Freehold, involved in many aspects of church life. She was member of the Chancel Choir for 68 years, Bell Choir member, Sunday school teacher, Deacon for nine years, moderator for six years, member of expansion committee task force, nine-year member of worship commission, member of Unity Club, Circle and Church World Service and many other activities. Ruth was also a Girl Scout leader, and member of the Monmouth Grange No. 92. She was a CentraState Medical Center (Freehold Area Hospital) volunteer for 21 years and recognized as volunteer of the year. While living her later years at Applewood Estates, she was also involved in many activities. Viewing hours will be Thursday, May 31, 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm, at Higgins Memorial Home in Freehold. Funeral service will 10:30 AM, June 1, at The First Presbyterian Church of Freehold, followed by internment at Maplewood Cemetery, Freehold. The family has asked in lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Ruth’s name to The First Presbyterian Church, 118 West Main Street, Freehold, NJ 07728.