Ruth E Carrozza

Ruth McDevitt Carrozza, age 92, passed away peacefully the evening of July 1st, 2026. Ruth was born in Brooklyn, NY to Paul McDevitt and Evelyn R. Nelson. She spent the last 7 years residing at Normandie Ridge in Dover, PA. In 1990, she moved to Leesburg, FL from Yorktown Heights, NY. Previously, she lived in Boonton, NJ for 20 years as the wife of John M Wootton. After early schooling on Staten Island, NY and Freeport H.S. on Long Island, she graduated from Cornell University School of Agriculture with a B.S. in Landscape Design, class of 1955. Her work experience included Merrill Lynch on Wall Street, Durnheim Nurseries, and Andrews & Clark Engineering Consultants, NY. While raising 4 children, she wrote a weekly garden club column, served for 4 years as a member of the Boonton School Board, and served 10 years as the Chairman of the Boonton Shade Tree Commission. While active in the local garden club, Ruth served on the Women’s Auxiliary Board of Riverside Hospital. She was most proud of her private design commission for a Rose Garden at the Frelinghuysen Arboretum in Morristown, NJ.

Ruth spent years teaching biology and general science in high schools in and around Morristown, NJ. During this time, she acquired an M.S. in science from Montclair State College of NJ. For 6 years, Ruth taught at St. Vincent’s Psychiatric Hospital in Rye, NY, helping 13–18-year-olds complete their studies.

A true plant and social club enthusiast, Ruth’s membership in garden clubs has totaled over 50 years. Membership in the Camellia G.C. started in 1990 in Eustis, FL. During her stay in Leesburg, FL, she enjoyed membership in the American Assoc. of University Women where she was awarded ‘The Woman of the Year,’ a gourmet club for 20 years, an out-to-lunch group, the Life Group for widow & widowers, and the Triangle Christian Women. Her service on the Board of Directors for Haven of Lake County totaled 5 years.

In her most recent years, Ruth enjoyed moving closer to her daughter in Dover, PA, making friends at Normandie Ridge, riding on the back of her son-in-law’s Harley motorcycle, camping, and visiting her grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.

She is survived by her children Mark T. Wootton (Katherine), Lisa A. Lynch (Timothy), Matthew C. Wootton, 9 grandchildren, and 5 great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband Vincent F. Carrozza and son John R. Wootton.

In remembrance, contributions can be made to the Leesburg Public Library for children’s books. Interment will be at the Woodlawn Cemetery in NY.