Ruth A. (Calahan) Hallisy

Ruth A. (Calahan) Hallisy, age 99, of Miamisburg, Ohio passed away on Wednesday, January 1, 2025 at St. Leonard’s Health Care Center in Centerville, Ohio. Ruth was born in Cincinnati, Ohio on June 28, 1925, to the late Joseph D. and Loretta M. (Reichling) Calahan. Preceding her in death were husband, Robert “Bob” Hallisy; brother Robert J. Calahan; sister Mary “Jeanne” (Calahan) Vorhis; and father of her children, Stanley E. Evans.

Left behind to hold her memory dear are her five children, Paul D. (Sue) Evans, Richard J. (Maria Rivera) Evans, Rowan J. (Joseph Castner) Evans, Timothy E. Evans and Donna M. (Evans) Hawkins; 3 grandchildren, Geoff Evans (Margot Schou), Jacob (Katie) Hawkins and David Hawkins; 5 great-grandchildren; brother, Donald A. Calahan; and numerous beloved nieces, nephews, friends and caregivers.

The greatest joy of Ruth’s long life was being a mother. Her happiest times were when her cherished family was gathered around her. She reveled in organizing reunions that brought far-flung relations together. Ruth was an eternal optimist and a wry humorist. In challenging circumstances she easily found not just the silver lining but also the witty angle. She was an excellent seamstress, combining practicality and creativity. Curtains, slipcovers, doll clothes and fancy dresses zipped from her sewing machine with ease. An eager gardener, she worked her flower and vegetable beds with both delight and success. Ruth was a watercolor artist and devoted friend to many, frequently offering cheerful, kind or encouraging words inside one of her hand-painted cards. Gifts from her kitchen included casseroles for the homeless and cookies for the neighbors.

After raising her children and retiring from NCR, she enjoyed exploring the U.S. with her husband, Bob, in their R.V. She eagerly said “Yes!” when opportunities arose for them to serve as campground hosts or to travel internationally. Ruth loved life and was ever-grateful for all of the good things that she had been blessed with over her 99 years. Her children, and indeed, all those who came to know her, can now count themselves as heirs and stewards of her finest virtues. She will be deeply missed by all.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 10, 2025 from 10:30 am to 11:30 am at St. Albert the Great Catholic Church (3033 Far Hills Avenue, Kettering, Ohio 45429). A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 12:00 pm. A private family interment will be held at Gate of Heaven Catholic Cemetery in Cincinnati, Ohio.

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