Ruth K. Nawyn, a renowned musician and dedicated member of her community, passed away on October 31, 2025, at the age of 93. Her contributions to music, particularly through her involvement with the Salvation Army Band, left a lasting impact on those who knew her.
Born with a profound talent for music, Ruth began her journey at a young age, playing the Eb horn for the Salvation Army. Her musical abilities extended to the piano, and she sang in church choirs from the age of five through her adulthood. A devoted Presbyterian, Ruth was actively involved with the Presbyterian Women and served as a bookkeeper for St. Andrew Presbyterian Church in Suffolk.
Ruth was predeceased by her husband, Bernard “Barney” L. Nawyn, with whom she shared 68 years of marriage, as well as her son, Kenneth Nawyn, and his wife, Rochelle Nawyn. She is survived by her daughter, Cathy Nawyn Weitekamp, and her husband, Anthony Weitekamp. Additionally, Ruth leaves behind her granddaughter, Chantel Nawyn, and her husband, Bill Belcourt; her grandson, Eric Nawyn; and her great-grandson, Aiden Belcourt.
Ruth’s legacy will be honored in a memorial service scheduled for November 9, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Green Acres Presbyterian Church. Friends, family, and community members are invited to pay their respects to a woman who devoted her life to music and service.
Her family encourages contributions in her memory through Loving Funeral Home, which can be found online. Ruth K. Nawyn’s life was a testament to the joy and connection that music can bring, and her spirit will be cherished by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
