Obituary of Ruth Beck Wilcox

RUTH BECK WILCOX

*Funeral Service to be livestreamed and may be found by visiting www.facebook.com/dufresneandcavanaugh/. 

LATHAM - Ruth Beck Wilcox, 91, of Latham, NY, passed away peacefully on April 2, 2025, surrounded by love. A beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend, Ruth lived a life defined by service, faith, and unconditional welcome.

Born on March 12, 1934, in Minneapolis, MN, Ruth was raised in Grand Forks, ND. Her family moved there in 1939 when her father began work with the Great Northern Railroad. She spent childhood days swimming, ice skating, participating in school band and theater-serving as a lead majorette in the marching band and shining in school performances.

While attending college in Minnesota to pursue a degree in elementary education, Ruth met Jack Wilcox. They married in 1954. Though planning to elope, their church filled with friends after their license was published. They later settled in Latham, NY, where they lived on Fairlawn Drive for over 50 years and cherished their neighbors, especially the McGork family.

Ruth and Jack raised two children, Patti and Jay, and played an instrumental role in raising their grandchildren: Melissa Marino (Nick Marino), Ashley Zimmer, Ryan Zimmer (Kaylin), Chelsea Wilcox (Steve Knapp), and Dylan Wilcox. Their love extended to great-grandchildren: Emily, Madeline, and Jack Marino; Jaxon Wilcox; Harrison Redd; Riley and Lucas Knapp; and Olivia, Jacob, and Sophia Zimmer. Ruth was also a "second mom" and "grandma" to many who found comfort at her table.

She shared a special bond with the McAuley family. In her final year, Jaime McAuley took the lead in caring for Ruth, further deepening their connection and blessing her with love and comfort.

Ruth was a devoted member of St. Matthew's Episcopal Church, where she served in the choir, on the vestry, and as senior warden. She worked as a real estate broker with Moffat-Hollis Realty and held leadership roles in the Albany and Latham Women's Clubs. Ruth also worked as a server at Friendly's and later as an on-site administrator for the New York State Society of CPAs. She volunteered at the Ronald McDonald House, helped maintain the church grounds by cleaning and gardening, and always lent a helping hand to her loved ones. When her children were growing up, Ruth and Jack opened their home to foreign exchange students, warmly welcoming them as part of the family. She had a heart for those in need; always making room for one more and remained active and connected to her community throughout her life.

She found joy in simple things-gardening, card games, sharing a bowl of ice cream or her famously freshly baked cookies, and asking questions that made others feel seen. She filled her home with stories, laughter, and love.

She was predeceased by her husband, Jack (2012); her daughter, Patti (2005); her parents, Claus and Mabel Beck; and her brothers, Lt. Lawrence Beck and Cmdr. Earl Beck. She is survived by her son Jay Wilcox (Michele Desrosiers); her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and all who knew her as family.

A visitation will be held Friday, April 11, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at St. Matthew's Episcopal Church, 129 Old Loudon Rd., Latham, followed by a memorial service at 12:00 PM. A brunch reception will follow downstairs at the church. A private interment will take place on Saturday, during which Ruth will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Jack.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Rett Syndrome Research Trust in honor of Ruth and her great-granddaughter, Madeline. Donations can be made online at www.rsrt.org or by mail to Rett Syndrome Research Trust, 67 Under Cliff Road, Trumbull, CT 06611. Please include "In memory of Ruth Wilcox, in honor of Madeline Marino" on the memo line or online dedication field.

Ruth was known for her deep interest in keeping the peace and treating others with kindness. Her legacy is one of compassion, hospitality, and a table that always had room for more.

Arrangements have been entrusted by the family to the care of The Dufresne & Cavanaugh Funeral Home, Latham. For further information or to leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.dufresneandcavanaugh.com.