Ruth Emma Drumm Verones died Nov. 9 at Fairview Commons in Great Barrington. Born May 22, 1927, in Great Barrington, she was the daughter of Howard and Ida Dewkett Drumm. She was raised in Alford and attended the one-room Alford School House, then later graduated from Searles High School.
Ruth married her beloved husband, John (Sonny) Verones, in 1950 and they raised their family on a dairy farm on Alford Road. Ruth was the epitome of the “farmer’s wife.” She cared for everyone and made farm life a joy when often it could be seen as a hardship. She lovingly tended her hens, her gardens and her home but, above all, she tended to her husband and children. She held her family close in her heart above everything else.
Few knew that she was a gifted artist but rarely had time to devote to it. Ruth cherished the warmth of summer, wildflowers, birds and all else nature had to offer. When her children were older, she was employed by the “original” Jenifer House for many years.
Ruth leaves her five children – two sons: John Jr. and wife Patricia of Mount Washington, and Norman MacLellan of Pittsfield; her three daughters: Gail Andersen of Pittsfield, Donna Broderick and husband John of Great Barrington, and Susan Tomich and husband Mark, also of Mount Washington. She also leaves her 11 grandchildren: Gina, Ashley, Toni and Rebecca Verones, Julia Andersen, Jessie (Tomich) Murtagh, Madeline, Lizzie and Claire Tomich, and John and Emily Faedi; and five great-grandchildren: Bryce, Brodie, Damon, Jameson and Lillian. Ruth is also survived by her two sisters: Mrs. Eunice Anson and Mrs. Kathleen Potash, both of Great Barrington.
Ruth was predeceased by her husband of 62 years, John Peter Verones Sr., in 2012; and her 10-year-old son James David, who died in 1967; as well as her two brothers Arnold and John (Buddy) Drumm.
There were no calling hours, as were Ruth’s wishes, and her burial was private. Memorial donations may be made to the Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary in care of FINNERTY & STEVENS FUNERAL HOME, 426 Main St., Great Barrington, MA 01230, which is in charge of arrangements. To send remembrances to the family, go to www.finnertyandstevens.com.
