Ruth E. Zell - Obituary

uth E. Zell, 63, a longtime resident of Edgewater, Maryland, passed away peacefully in her home on August 8, 2026, surrounded by the love that filled her life. Born on September 12, 1962, in Annapolis, Maryland, Ruth was the daughter of the late Alvin and Dorothy Wood. Above all else, Ruth treasured her family. She was a devoted mother, a loving grandmother, a cherished sister, and a dear friend. Her greatest joy came from spending time with those she loved, especially her grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart. Ruth had a creative spirit and loved arts and crafts, finding happiness in making things with her own hands. She also had a lifelong affection for animals and enjoyed motorcycles. Whether she was working on a craft, spending time with family and friends, or simply enjoying the company of those closest to her, Ruth brought her own warmth and personality to every moment. In addition to her parents, Ruth was preceded in death by her beloved son, James Zell III. Her family takes comfort in knowing they are together again. Ruth is survived by her three sons, Joseph Zell and his wife, Nicole Zell, of Hinckley, Ohio, and Steven Zell and his wife, Giorgianna Zell, of Edgewater, MD and Ryan Zell of Edgewater, Maryland; her siblings, Carol VanCamp of Edgewater, Maryland, and Robert Wood and Susan Bean, both of Texas; and her nine beloved grandchildren, James IV, Nicolas, Damian, Zoey, Liliana, Amelia, Kiersten, Gianluca, and Maeve Zell. Ruth’s life was defined by the love she gave so freely to her family and friends. Although her absence leaves an immeasurable emptiness in the hearts of those who knew and loved her, her memory will live on through the family she treasured, the many moments they shared, and the love she leaves behind. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Ruth’s life on Saturday, August 15, 2026, from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 4:00 p.m., at Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, Maryland.