Ruth S. Varley

Ruth S. (LeBlanc) Varley, of Waltham, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 31, 2025, at Saint Patrick’s Manor in Framingham after a brief decline in health. She was 90.

Born on January 23, 1935, in Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada, Ruth was the youngest of Georges and Edna (Gauvin) LeBlanc’s five children. Tragically, she lost her father when she was just a year old, which fostered an incredibly close-knit bond among her siblings. She fondly remembered the wonderful summer vacations they spent at the beach in Newfoundland, cherishing the memories of her brothers and sisters.

After completing her schooling, Ruth immigrated to the United States for work and to be closer to her sisters who had already settled in Waltham. Her contributions extended beyond her employment at the Waltham Watch factory; she also played a vital role in supporting her sister Dorice in raising her children.

In 1963, Ruth married Warren F. Varley Jr. and they made their home in Waltham, raising two sons. Ruth was an exceptional mother, always fully engaged in her sons’ interests and activities. She actively volunteered at their schools, providing chaperone trips and assistance in the library, demonstrating her unwavering dedication to their well-being.

Ruth found immense joy in various outdoor activities, including camping in New Hampshire, beach trips, sunsets, and sharing ice cream with her family. She especially loved the delightful experience of picking blueberries and enjoyed the company of loved ones around the bon fire. After her husband’s passing in 2006, Ruth continued her retirement and cherished her love for the outdoors at the family summer camp in Rochester, New Hampshire. During the winter months, she enjoyed knitting blankets and scarves for friends and family.

In her later years, Ruth embraced the activities offered by the Waltham senior center, where she continued to engage in meaningful social interactions.

Ruth was a hardworking mother who never hesitated to lend a helping hand to those in need. She deeply valued her independence and the freedom it afforded her. It is this example of love, kindness, and resilience that was the greatest gift to her children and grandchildren.

Ruth is reunited in heaven with her late husband, Warren F. Varley Jr., and grandson, Scott Varley. She was also predeceased by her brothers, Lloyd and George LeBlanc, and her sisters, Dorice LeBlanc and Corinne Carr-LeBlanc.

She leaves her children, Patrick J. Varley of Waltham and Daniel L. Varley (Leslie) of Framingham; her grandchildren, Sarah, Rachel, and Tessa, along with many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends will honor and remember Ruth’s life by gathering for an Afternoon Wake in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham on Sunday, April 6th from 2 to 4 p.m. and again at 9 a.m. on Monday morning before leaving in procession to Saint Mary’s Church, 133 School Street, Waltham, where her Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Burial will be held at 1:30 p.m. Monday, at Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne.

Memorial donations in Ruth's name may be made to Cure SMA (spinal muscular atrophy) at https://www.curesma.org/about-cure-sma/