WATERBURY- It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that the family of Ruth B. Longo, age 85, of Waterbury, shares the news of her unexpected passing on Friday, July 31, 2026 at Hartford Hospital following a brief illness. She was the beloved wife of Ralph Longo.

Ruth was born in Waterbury on February 24, 1941, daughter of the late Thomas and Rachel McGrath. Ruth dedicated a significant portion of her life to her role as a waitress in the restaurant industry, where she formed meaningful connections with both colleagues and customers alike. One of her most cherished roles, however, was that of a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Ruth was vibrant and nurturing, bringing joy to her family and friends. Her home was a sanctuary filled with flourishing plants, a testament to her green thumb,. Among her many passions, she cultivated a special fondness for penguins, amassing a delightful collection of trinkets that brought smiles to her grandchildren's faces during their many visits. An avid fan of the New York Yankees, she found joy in watching their games and cheering for her beloved team. Ruth was a kind person who cared deeply about others. She loved her family beyond words and may her memory be a blessing to all.

Left to honor her legacy and cherish her memory, besides her husband of 61 years, Ralph is her daughter, Laurie Gambino (Phil); her son, Mark Longo; her siblings, Patricia Coventry, her twin Margaret Maselli, Linda Barone (Stephen), and John McGrath (Brenda). She will be fondly remembered by her grandchildren, Aleah Lopez (Zack), Kellie Gambino, Alexis Longo, and her great-grandchildren, Lucas and Teagan. She also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She was predeceased by her grandson, Philip Gambino III, and her brothers, Thomas and Francis McGrath

A Memorial Service for Ruth will be held on Wednesday, August 5th 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at Casey’s Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1987 East Main St, Waterbury, CT 06705. Friends and relatives are invited to pay their respects and visit with Ruth’s family on Wednesday evening from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be held privately at the convenience of her family. To honor Ruth's memory and in lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the charity of the donor's choice. In this time of reflection, the family welcomes all who knew and loved Ruth to share messages of condolence, comfort, and cherished memories. Please visit the funeral home's tribute page at www.caseyfunerals.com to connect with the family.