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Ruth Ann Marvel, age 64, of Dagsboro, DE, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, September 19, 2025, at Bayhealth in Milford, DE.
Born on November 19, 1960, in Lewes, DE, Ruth Ann was the daughter of the late Ralph W. Burbage and Ruth Marie (Evans) Burbage. A proud graduate of Indian River High School, Class of 1978, Ruth Ann remained closely connected to her alma mater throughout her life.
Ruth Ann- affectionately known as Mom, Mommom, Fan, or Aunt Fan- was a devoted wife, loving mother, and adoring grandmother who created a warm and welcoming home for her family. If you were lucky enough to spend time with her, you likely sampled her delicious banana bread or fudge and washed it down with her homemade sweet tea or a cup of coffee. She had a heart for others and gave back generously to her community. She was a founding and active member of the Indian River High School Alumni Association, and helped them distribute over $100,000 to deserving local seniors and graduates.
Her gift for hospitality and attention to detail were unmatched—she never forgot a birthday or anniversary and you always could expect one of her cards. Ruth Ann found her greatest joy in loving her grandchildren and staying connected with lifelong friends. She often loved thrifting, puzzles, a good book, sewing with her beloved sister, crafting, and relaxing on coffee dates with friends.
Ruth Ann will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for her kindness, warmth, and unwavering dedication to the people and community she loved.
She was preceded in death by her father, Ralph W. Burbage. She is survived by her mother, Ruth Marie (Evans) Burbage; her husband of 38 years, Keith Marvel; two children, Keili Marvel and her wife, Christy Weber of Dagsboro, DE and Kyle Marvel and his wife, Lexi of Dagsboro, DE and two grandchildren (who were her world) Oscar Marvel-Weber and Ivy Marvel-Weber. Ruth Ann is also survived by a brother, Richard Burbage and his wife, Rhoda of Salem, VA; a sister, Rhonda McManus and her husband, William of Rehoboth Beach, DE and nieces and nephews, Aaron Burbage (Whitney), Evan Hill (Gary), Ryan McManus (Jenny) and Adam McManus (Laura), and their families.
A celebration of Ruth Ann's life will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at the Ocean View Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 38040 Muddy Neck Rd., Ocean View, DE 19970. A visitation will be held from 10-11 AM where the service will begin at 11 AM. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Ruth Ann's memory to the Indian River High School Alumni Association, 29772 Armory Rd., Dagsboro, DE 19939 or to your local library.
Saturday
Ocean View Chapel of Melson Funeral Services
10:00 - 11:00 am
Saturday
Ocean View Chapel of Melson Funeral Services
Starts at 11:00 am
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