Obituary: Ruth D. Beckett, 97

October 2, 1922 – April 25, 2020

Reading, MA — Ruth D. (Lofberg) Beckett, of Wakefield, a former longtime resident of Reading, passed away at her son’s home on April 25, 2020.  She was 97 years of age. 

Ruth was born in Boston, Massachusetts on October 2, 1922, the daughter of Gustaf A. and Edith E. (Lundstrom) Lofberg.  Ruth was a graduate of Katherine Gibbs Secretarial School in Boston.  She worked as an Analyst for Fidelity Investments for 27 years.  She served our country proudly during World War II in The U.S. Navy WAVES.  During her time in the Navy, she intercepted and decoded enemy messages.  She was stationed in Bronx, New York, Port Blakely, Washington, and Balboa Park, San Francisco, California.  She was honorably discharged with the rank of Radioman 3rd Class.  Ruth was a longtime member of the First Congregational Church in Reading where she taught Sunday school.  She was a Cub Scout Leader and a member of Great Books club at the Reading Public Library.  She was an active member of the N.A.M.I. (National Association for Mental Illness). 

Ruth was the beloved wife of the late Arthur E. Beckett.  Devoted mother of Wesley A. Beckett and his wife Patricia Murphy of Wakefield, the late Ronald C. Beckett, and the late Wayne A. Beckett.  Cherished sister of the late Robert Lofberg and his late wife Verlie.  She is also survived by several nieces and nephews. 

Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, a private graveside service will be held at Puritan Lawn Memorial Park in Peabody.  A Memorial Service celebrating her life will be held at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Ruth’s memory to the Wakefield Interfaith Food Pantry 467 Main St. Wakefield MA 01880.

[Obituary from Douglass, Edgerley, & Bessom Funeral Home]