Joyce Ruvolo, 81, died Saturday, Jan. 16, 2021, at her home in Boca Raton under the care of hospice, surrounded by friends and family. She was born Feb.1, 1939, in Jamaica, Queens, New York. (And boy, you could tell it by her thick accent.) Though she later lived in Maine during her youth, she was a New York City denizen for much of her working life. It was in the city that she met her late husband, Michael Ruvolo, a kind and cheery Navy veteran of World War II. She is survived by her two children, Renee (Anne) and Scott (Suzanne).
Mrs. Ruvolo was a faithful Catholic all of her life, and in her later years taught the Catechism to scores of youths at Saint Jude’s in Boca Raton. In what was surely a sign of her faithfulness, she passed in peace as her favorite priest was performing last rites for her. As the Gaelic saying goes, she had a bos sona, a good death.
During her early working years in New York City, Mrs. Ruvolo worked part-time as an administrative assistant while pursuing her dream of dancing with the New York City Ballet. She attended classes with the company when it was under the direction of George Balanchine. But she wryly noted that she was too pale for the chorus, as Balanchine favored more exotic looking dancers.
After their move to Florida in 1984, the Ruvolos began new careers, Michael with the Broward Sheriff’s Office as a bailiff, and Joyce with the Ed Morse Automotive Group. They also pursued their passion of cruising and traveling. They once cruised around the United Kingdom, where Joyce reveled in exploring her McLeod Clan roots. They also enjoyed trips to Italy and Spain, as well as numerous trips to the Caribbean. The couple also enjoyed the friends and camaraderie of the Italian American Heritage Society of Boca Raton.
She and Michael also adored Dandie Dinmont terriers and were privileged to own several over the past several years. She leaves behind her crazy Daisy dog, whom she rescued from the streets. (If you wish to donate to Tri-County Animal Rescue in her memory, that would be greatly appreciated.)
She also leaves to cherish her memory loving friends Marcia Locurto, Janet Dauro and Frank Baronski and some of the world’s best neighbors.
Her family and friends were blessed to have the caring nurses of Trustbridge guide us through this last walk Home. We were able to celebrate Christmas and her birthday all rolled into one as she laughed and shared stories with her children and friends.
Arrangements are under the direction of Babione Funeral Home, 10060 Calle Comercio Dr, Boca Raton, FL 33428.
Services are scheduled at 10 a.m. Feb. 12 at her beloved St. Jude Church, 21689 Toledo Road, Boca Raton.
Burial will be held Monday, February 15, 2021 at 10:30am at South Florida National Cemetery, 6501 S State Road 7, Lake Worth, FL.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18