Ruth Ann Smith

Ruth Ann Smith, of Beaver Meadows, passed away unexpectedly early Wednesday morning at her home.
Born and raised in Hazleton, she was the daughter of the late Anthony J. and Eleanor C. (Roberts) Cherasaro.
One of eight children, Ruth Ann grew up in a home filled with strong values and a deep love of family—bonds
she cherished and maintained throughout her life.

Ruth Ann was a devoted and loving wife, mother and grandmother. She met her husband, Richard, in 1990, and
they were married in 1992, sharing 34 years of love, laughter, companionship, and unwavering support.

She worked for many years in the local garment industry and was a proud member of the ILGWU. Later, she
was employed by the Hazleton Area School District as a bus aide for special needs children, a role she
embraced with compassion and dedication until her retirement.

A faithful member of Holy Rosary Church, Ruth Ann lived her life grounded in faith and service. Her love for
children was evident in all she did. For ten years, she volunteered at Pastor Joann Young Playground, where she
lovingly cared for young children in her community.

Following the heartbreaking loss of her daughter, Lisa Ann, in 1990, Ruth Ann turned her grief into purpose by
founding a local chapter of Compassionate Friends in 1991, offering support and comfort to other bereaved
parents.

Ruth Ann’s generosity extended beyond her community work. She was recognized by the American Red Cross
as a milestone donor, having donated over 100 pints of blood, along with numerous platelet donations. She also
enjoyed her time as a member of the former Silver Beaver Drum and Bugle Corps.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Lisa Ann Giannott; her sister,
Margaret Rendako and her husband Anthony; and her brothers, Herbert Cherasaro, August “Gus” Cherasaro
and his wife Diane, and Walter Cherasaro.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Richard Smith, of Beaver Meadows; her stepson, Christopher Smith
and his companion, Renee King; her cherished grandchildren, Olivia and Gabrielle Smith; and her loving
sisters, Charlotte DiLiberto of Hazleton, Elizabeth “Betty” Seburn of Ruskin, Florida, and Jeanne Kistulentz
and her husband Albert of Hazleton. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, March 30, at 10:00 AM at Holy Rosary Church in
Hazleton. Family will receive relatives and friends from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at the church prior to the Mass.

Interment will follow at Most Precious Blood Cemetery in Hazleton.

Ruth Ann will be remembered as a generous, compassionate caregiver whose love touched many lives. Her
memory will live on forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Joseph B. Conahan Funeral Home, Hazleton.

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