Ruth F. Ingraham's Obituary
Ruth F. Ingraham, 85, of Fort Myers, FL, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 16, 2026.
She was born on September 12, 1940, in Providence, RI, the daughter of the late John Robarge and Elizabeth (Higgins) Robarge.
Ruth is survived by her son, Pete (Miami, FL), and her granddaughter, Josie (Washington, D.C.).”
She was preceded in death by her husband of 48 years, Jim, and their daughter, Stefanie.
She attended Boston University and earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree after graduating from St. Mary Academy—Bay View in East Providence, RI.
While Ruth was working in a management position for “Ma Bell” in Boston, she met a WWII combat Marine, writer, and History Professor named Jim.
They married, settled, and raised a family in Thompson, CT.
In 1990, Ruth fulfilled a lifelong dream by moving to Florida with Jim, where she worked for several years as the Sales Manager at Jungle Drums Art Gallery on Captiva Island.
Throughout their retirement years, Ruth and Jim happily spent countless hours walking the pristine beaches of southwest Florida, with Ruth musing on, collaborating with and later editing Jim’s latest short story or novel.
Ruth was deeply committed to supporting the continued conservation of Florida panthers.
To honor Ruth’s passion, memorial contributions for panther conservation can be made to: https://floridawildlifefederation.org/donate/
Immediate funeral ceremonies are private.
What’s your fondest memory of Ruth?
What’s a lesson you learned from Ruth?
Share a story where Ruth's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Ruth you’ll never forget.
How did Ruth make you smile?

