Dorothy Mary Ruddick, age 81, of Cleveland Heights, Ohio, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2025.

A devoted mother, exemplary grandmother, loving sister, and loyal friend, Dorothy was born on September 24, 1943, in Cleveland, Ohio. She was educated in the Cleveland Public School System and graduated from Glenville High School. As the eldest of her siblings, Dorothy naturally developed a deep sense of patience, diligence, and no-nonsense strength that shaped her throughout life.

Dorothy dedicated over 30 years of service as a respected math teacher in the East Cleveland Public School System. She was well known for her innovative teaching methods, unwavering commitment to her students, and tireless work ethic. After retiring, she cherished spending time with her beloved grandchildren, who were the light of her life.

A fiercely independent woman, Dorothy valued her privacy and lived life with quiet strength and strong will. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—reading mystery novels, playing bingo, working on word search puzzles, and watching movies with her grandson Jacques Jr. Above all, she loved doting on her grandchildren.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her mother, Minnie Murphy; father, Mellow McCadden; her ex-husband, Brian Paul Ruddick Sr.; sisters Geraldine Murphy, June Murphy, Jane Murphy, Joyce Murphy, and Danita Pearl McNeil; and brothers Henry Murphy Jr. and Leroy Murphy.

She is survived by her devoted children, Brian Paul Ruddick Jr. and Justine Ruddick Smith (Jacques); her cherished grandchildren, Taylor Louvain Smith and Jacques O’Neill Smith Jr. (Cheyenne), who were truly the loves of her life; her dear sister Valorie (Fred) Landers, whose steadfast love and care were a comfort to her; and her siblings Arbella McCadden, Ardella Ervin, and Pauline Hill; brothers Bruce Murphy, Clifford Andre McCadden, Miquel McCadden, and Chaka X McCadden. She is also remembered fondly by a host of loving family members and friends.

In accordance with Dorothy’s wishes, the family will honor her life with a private farewell. No public service will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for your thoughts, prayers, and support during this difficult time.