Ruth Ann (Eastlack) Crossley, 94, of Bridgewater, CT, died peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday, August 20, 2026. She was the wife of the late Robert Deacon Crossley who predeceased her in 2013. Ruth was born on March 22, 1932, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, daughter of Franklin Thomas and Ruth Elizabeth (Tonkin) Eastlack of Pitman, New Jersey. She graduated from Pitman High School in 1950; attended music lessons at Philadelphia’s Curtis Institute of Music with renowned Russian American violinist Jascha Brodsky; and graduated with a music degree from Syracuse University in 1954.

In addition to music, Ruth found joy in the quiet arts of sewing and baking. During her early years, she worked at the Winter Olympics Training Center in Lake Placid, New York, making costumes for American figure skaters. She had a wonderful eye for color and style. Ruth’s creativity carried over into the kitchen where she crafted delicious home-cooked meals and desserts including her delectable rice pudding. A lifelong animal enthusiast, Ruth poured her affection into her caring for her many beloved cats.

Ruth is survived by her daughter, Pamela (Matthew) Smith of Mesa, Arizona; son Douglas (Brenda) Crossley of Roxbury, Connecticut; and son Brian (Cheri) Crossley of Bridgewater, Connecticut. “Grandma C” also leaves behind nine grandchildren: Elizabeth and Susannah Smith; Eamon, Tiernan, Eilish, Saoirse, Alicia, and Taryn Crossley; and Rachel (AJ) Lorenzetti.

Ruth’s family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to longtime caregiver Bozena Kotas and Ruth’s team of home care aides.

Memorial contributions can be made in Ruth’s memory to: The Connecticut Humane Society.

Services are private and at the family’s convenience. To leave an online condolence please visit www.munsonloveterefuneralhome.com