Obituary of Ruth S. Rowley

Ruth S. Rowley, 90, of Duxbury, died July 19, 2011. Born in Iowa where she got her BA at the University of Iowa, she worked for the Girl Scouts in Ohio before joining the Army during WWII and becoming a physical therapist. Following the war, she got her Masters Degree in Political Science at BU. President of Plymouth Bay Girl Scout Council in the 60's, the first woman on the Board of Selectmen in Duxbury 1974-1977, she served tirelessly on Democratic campaigns locally, district and state-wide, and nationally, including the presidential campaign of Michael S. Dukakis. Well known in Duxbury for her participation in local government, she served on many boards and committees and was a constant reminder that due process is in place to allow the participation and protection of all. Creating a town that was inclusive and affordable for all was her dream to the end. Committees and positions aside, it was the concern, regard and respect for the people affected by it all which fueled her passion to participate. She loved her family and her incredibly rich community of friends, viewing the beach at sunset, the 4th of July parade,and the fact that she got to see Obama in the White House! Predeceased by her husband James Rowley, architect, and her sister Elizabeth Cate of N. Carolina, she leaves her daughter Linda Rowley and son Steven Rowley, both of Duxbury, her nieces and nephews Michael Cate of N. Carolina, Christine Austria, Rick Rowley, and Susan Shook of New York and their children. A Memorial Service with reception following will be held Sat. July 30 at 10:00AM at the First Parish Church, Tremont St., Duxbury. Mother Jones said: "Don't mourn, Organize!". This might be another way of communicating Ruth's wishes that in lieu of flowers, "pursue that cause for which you have passion and find others to bring along with you". Or a donation may be made in Ruth's memory to the charity or Democratic campaign of your choice.