Diana Marie Ruth-Smiles

Diana Marie Ruth-Smiles was called home to our Lord, on Friday, March 1, 2024 after a battle with lung cancer at her home in South Pasadena, Florida at the age of 80.

Diana M. Smiles (nee Ruth) was born October 29, 1943 to Jacob and Dorothy Ruth of Chestnut Hill, Pennsylvania, the owners of the Jacob F. Ruth Funeral Home. As a family business Diana assisted her father with many aspects of the business. Diana had often wished she had become an undertaker, but at the time it was not considered suitable work for a young woman.

She attended the prestigious all girls high school, The Stevens School in Philadelphia, PA and upon graduation went to Centenary College (now university) in Hackettstown, NJ.

Following college, she was the Women’s Buyer for The B. Altman’s Department Store in New York City, NY.  In 1967 Diana married Roy H. Smiles, Jr. In 1991 Diana moved to St. Petersburg, Florida for retirement and enjoyed the sun and warm weather the south had to offer. She was a lover of animals, Thai food, and a good party.

Diana is survived by her daughter Holly and son-in-law Phillip, as well as countless friends.

Join us to celebrate the life of Diana M. Smiles on Friday, March 15, 2024 at 11 AM at the Beach Memorial Chapel, 301 Corey Avenue, Saint Pete Beach, Florida 33706. Luncheon to follow.