Ruth Ann Hyland

With deep sadness but also with immense pride, Ruth Ann Hyland's children announce the peaceful passing of our mother on January 26, 2025. Born on February 23, 1940, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Ruth Ann would want to be remembered as a loving, resilient, and devoted mother whose life was defined by her boundless love and devotion to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, whom she adored.

For most of her life, she was a very proud stay-at-home mother who did nearly all the backbreaking work it takes to raise six very active children; she created a home where the values of kindness, resilience, determination, and of course, a self-deprecating sense of humor were instilled.  After raising her children and getting ready to enjoy the fruits of her labor, life threw her a curveball, and she was compelled to return to school to help support herself. So she hit the books, aced her classes, and proudly became a patient care assistant at Forbes Hospital to earn a living. Her family got an additional bonus when she came home from work, as she seamlessly transitioned from patient care assistant to "doctor," expertly diagnosing any ailment (whether wanted or not) with the authority of someone who had run an entire emergency room. In this role, both at work and home, she found fulfillment in helping others and her family as she had done her entire life.   

Ruth Ann was the beloved mother of her proud Pittsburgh kids: Brian (Janet), Michele, Brendan (Tricia), Heather, Kaycee (Paul), and Dennis (Diane).  We should have added Kenny Pickett as a seventh child because she acted as if he was her kid, still advocating until the week before she died that the Steelers should trade to get him back “where he belongs.”  Her grandchildren also survive her: Matthew (Jenna), Nicole, Alyssa (Antonio), Allie, Sidney, AJ, Brooke, Ryan, Christian, Jingle and Jangle (if you know, you’ll know and laugh); and her great-grandchildren, especially Nora and Leo who always came over to her house to joy ride on her chair up and down the steps.

The strength and grace she demonstrated throughout her life helped shape and mold the lives of her children and those privileged to know her. We trust that as she looks down from heaven, she knows she ran the race and ran it well.

The family will hold a private Catholic funeral Mass to honor her life. There will be no visitation. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to remember her may consider donating to PitCare Meals on Wheels, 416 Center Avenue, Pitcairn, PA 15140. Such a gesture would not only honor her memory but also provide meaningful support to a cause close to the family’s heart.

The John M. Dobrinick Funeral Home Inc., 702 7th Street Trafford 412-372-3111 is assisting the family with arrangements.   To leave a condolence please visit www.dobrinickfhinc.com