Ruth M. Mahovlic

Ruth Mahovlic, née Spafford, transitioned from earth angel to heavenly angel on May 30, 2024. Born in Berea on September 29, 1965 to the late Rita and James Spafford, Ruth's life was a testament to love, joy, and unwavering strength. 

Ruth was the beloved wife of the late Thomas Mahovlic, with whom she spent 14 years building a beautiful life. She had six children and three stepchildren whom she loved endlessly. Together, she and Tom had nineteen grandchildren, with each one of whom Ruth had a special bond. She was the glue that held everyone together, and she devoted her life to ensuring her family was happy. 

Ruth radiated love and spread joy to every person she encountered, always making those around her feel special with her warm smile and kind heart.  Her sense of humor helped, too.

As much as she loved being a wife, mother, and grandmother, she also lived a full life outside of her home and her strength and determination shone through in everything she did. Never one to be intimidated by a challenge, Ruth went back to school later in life and became a registered nurse. Finally realizing her longtime goal, Ruth showed that it is never too late to fulfill your dreams. In her role as a nurse, she was not just a caregiver, but a beacon of hope and comfort to those in need. 

Ruth realized another long time goal with the opening of Propaganda Coffee in Lakewood. Working with family, Ruth loved bringing cheer with the daily interactions she had with customers.

Outside of work, Ruth liked to travel and explore.  Her adventurous spirit was evident when she climbed Mount Kilimanjaro at the age of 50, a testament to her remarkable strength and determination. 

Ruth passed away just as she would have wanted - surrounded by family, love, and laughter. Though she is no longer with us, her playful spirit, loving heart, and remarkable strength will continue to inspire and bring smiles to the faces of those who knew her for years to come. 

Ruth is survived by her children—Sonjia (Maximillian) Parker, Cody (Mariana) McClung, Jesse (Patricia) McClung, Clay McClung, Amber (Jon, you’ll always count) McClung, Briana (Travis) Light, Krystal (Ben), Tommy (Alyssa), and Kevin; her grandchildren—Jasmine, Eric, Josh, Izabella, Athena, Jessamyn, Cameran, Jesse, Tommy Jr., Maxim, Jules, Elisa, Evan, Timmy, Dominic, Harper, Liam, Jamey, and Oliver; her siblings—Glenn Millhoane, Denise (Michael) Krivach, Joel (Melody) Spafford, Jill Farkas, Marianne Spafford, and Jimmy (Wendy) Spafford; many nieces and nephews, and her dogs Cocoa and Pebbles. 

To celebrate Ruth's extraordinary spirit, the family invites all who knew and loved her to a Celebration of Life on Sunday, June 9 from 4 PM to 8 PM at 5541 Sequoia Drive, Parma, OH 44134. The service will be held at 6 PM. In honor of Ruth’s remarkable life, please wear color.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Slone & Co. Funeral Directors.