Ruthie Connelly

Ruth Mary Connelly (Ruthie) passed away after a brief illness at Cottage Hospital on June 7th, 2022 after fond goodbyes from family. Her daughter was at her side.

Born in 1933 in Central Falls, Rhode Island to Julie and Jack Greene, Ruthie was the middle of three children. She grew up climbing trees in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. After high school, Ruthie traveled west and landed in Los Angeles. Her mother and brother followed. Ruthie’s eldest brother, John (Jack) Greene, pre-deceased her.

She had one daughter, Calla (Skeetz) Gold, during a brief marriage to Robert F. Skeetz.

Ruthie moved to San Francisco in 1963 and embarked on her lifelong dream of dancing and performing. She danced under the name Anya and was well versed in Balinese, modern, and classical ballet. She studied, taught, and performed with the Mark Wilde Ballet Company. She choreographed several performances.

Ruthie moved to Santa Barbara in 1971. She made new friends in the Unitarian Church community and was part of a communal group that was formed to live in The Greenhouse, a commune spearheaded by Unitarian members in Goleta. She continued to live the communal lifestyle until she met the love of her life Kevin Connelly, a renowned sail maker. He predeceased her in 2012. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, and beloved wife. Ruthie was loved by many and a joy to know.

Ruthie loved to read and discuss books. She bought and gifted many copies of 10% Happier by Dan Harris, which she said made her at least 10 percent happier. She said that visiting with her grandson Daniel Jason Gold made her 100 percent happier.

Per her wishes, Ruthie was cremated and her life was celebrated by close family shortly after her death.

Ruthie supported the Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara, Doctors Without Borders, and Planned Parenthood.

Ruthie is survived by her loving brother Richard Greene.