HAMPDEN – Ruth H. (DeCosta) Stecher, 75, went to be with her heavenly Father, June 21, 2011, after a brief and courageous battle with cancer. She was born Dec. 15, 1935, at New York City, the daughter of Anthony and Elizabeth (Terry) DeCosta.
Having spent her childhood in Philadelphia, she later married Carl W. Stecher Jr., Oct. 22, 1955. They resided in southern New Jersey where they began raising their family. Ruth was a caring and supportive person who enjoyed having family and friends around. She had a unique ability to understand the true character of a person almost immediately upon meeting them. Ruth was involved in the Church of the Nazarene nearly all her life, where she formed many dear and lasting friendships. Additionally, she enjoyed sewing clothes and costumes for children and grandchildren. She was also especially fond of giving formal teas and helping with weddings.
In addition to her loving husband of 54 years, Ruth is survived by four sons, Carl W. Stecher III and his wife, Kimberly, of Ellsworth, Clark Stecher and his wife, Norma, of Brewer, Craig Stecher of Hampden, Curt and his wife, Michele, of Gulfport, Miss.; one daughter, Carolyn Sproul and her husband, Vincent, of Dedham; 15 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Relatives and friends are welcome to call 4-6 p.m. Sunday, June 26, at Brookings-Smith, 133 Center St., Bangor, where a funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Monday, June 27, with the Rev. Damon Hayward, pastor of First Church of the Nazarene, and Rev. Dr Greg Selman, of Grace Bible Church, officiating. Interment will be at a future date. The family invites relatives and friends to share conversation and refreshments at Brookings-Smith Family Reception Center, 163 Center St., after the service. Condolences to the family may be expressed at
www.BrookingsSmith.com.