Obituary of Ruth Anne Scott

Ruth A. (Petocchi) Scott, age 76, of Penfield, NY is survived by her loving husband of 38 years, Don Scott, her daughter Ruth (Tim) Bellavia, and son John (Jolene) Caselli.

She is also survived by her sisters, Catherine (Ken) Jones, Carol (Greg) Dunbar, brother Michael (Kim) Petocchi and many nieces, nephews and close friends. Her greatest joy in life was her four grandchildren, Olivia, Alexa, Aidan and Anna with whom she played endless hours of Clue, Apples to Apples, and taught each one how to paint and sketch. She is predeceased by her parents Ruth and Michael Petocchi.

Ruth was a highly respected Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the Rochester community who spent the first 23 years of her career at Strong Memorial Hospital, later opening a successful private practice for two decades before retiring. She had a special place in her heart and extraordinary empathy for those who struggled in life and with mental health issues. When she wasn’t working, you could often find Ruth in the garden, whether it be planting pots of flowers or tending to her vegetables. Upon retiring in 2016, while on a walk with her beloved dog, Shadow, a chance meeting with a stranger offered her an invitation to join an art group, which would later lead her to become a remarkable artist and develop lasting friendships. Over the years, she enjoyed her time regularly with dear friends in her art group, painting and sharing stories and techniques. Her family often became the lucky recipients of beautiful paintings and cards for birthdays and holidays. We will treasure these gifts forever. 

Calling Hours will be held at Falvo Funeral Home, 1295 Fairport Nine Mile Point Road, Webster, NY 14580, on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 from 4:00pm-7:00pm. A mass of Christian burial will be celbrated at St. Josephs Church, 43 Gebhardt Road, Penfield, NY 14526, on Thursday, April 9, 2026 at 10:00am. Burial will be held privately at the convenience of the of the family. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation Wilmont Cancer Center (wci@rochester.edu) or Lollypop Farm (lollypop.org).