Jul 9, 2013

1947-2013

Judith Lou Bosley, 66, of Elm Grove, W.Va., passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family Sunday, June 30, 2013. She joins her beloved brother, Eric M. Ripper, who passed away June 3, 2013.

She was born January 30, 1947, in Washington, a daughter of the late Harold J. Ripper and Ruth M Oldham Ripper.

Ms. Bosley graduated from Avella High School. She held a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from West Liberty State College and a Master’s of Arts in rehabilitation counseling from West Virginia University.

She retired from West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services after 20 year of service. As an onsite rehabilitation counselor at both Wheeling Park and John Marshall high schools, she became a tireless advocate or faithful friend to numerous students and faculty. She enjoyed her volunteer time at the ARC of Wheeling and resumed her work with special needs clients at Russell Nesbit Services Inc.

Predating her professional career, Ms. Bosley demonstrated a variety of occupational skills. She was variously employed as a dental assistant, a waitress (Figaretti’s), a printer’s assistant (Pierson & Pierson) and a staff member at West Virginia Northern Community College. Most recently she worked as a tailor and clerk at Suzanne’s Fashion & Bridal Shop.

She was recognized as an accomplished seamstress, designing and altering beautiful clothes for herself, family, friends and clientele.

Ms. Bosley enjoyed matting and framing works of art, cross-stitching, knitting and gardening.

Surviving is her lifelong partner, Douglas K. Hawkins. She also leaves her cockapoo, PJae Mae Barker, the third in the line of “Barkers” (Daisy Mae and Pansy June), highly familiar to Elm Grove residents for their long walks with Ms. Bosley.

Also surviving are siblings David R. Ripper of Everett, Wash., Kevin C. Ripper (Julie) of Washington and Kathryn J. Gerdish (Alan) of Elizabeth; six nephews and nieces, Jason and Jonathan Ripper, Erica Trabbold, Kelly Gerdish, Christie Mansberry and Tony Melenyzer; and several great-nephews and nieces.

Friends will be received from 2 to 4 p.m., the time of a memorial service, Saturday, July 13, in Kepner Funeral Home, 166 Kruger Street, Elm Grove, Wheeling, W.Va., 304-242-2311, with Mark A. Conklin officiating.