Joanne Elizabeth (Regis) Ruby of Butler passed away Friday at her sister’s home in Montgomery, N.Y., surrounded by her loving family.

The daughter of the late Joseph A. Regis and Ruth E. Craig Regis, she was born June 20, 1943, in Pittsburgh. She was predeceased by her parents and her brother, Rex E. Regis.

Joanne was raised in Foxburg and maintained a lifelong appreciation of her scenic hometown.

She graduated from Clarion State College, now Clarion University, with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. She enjoyed a long and dedicated career as an elementary and gifted education teacher in the New Wilmington schools. In addition, she taught one year in Socorro, N.M.

Joanne received a number of letters during her illness from former students who remembered her as a favorite teacher who made learning fun through creative activities, and some students wrote to tell her that she inspired them to pursue careers as educators.

After retiring from teaching, she worked as a librarian at the Foxburg Free Library and at the Prospect Community Library. She also enjoyed participating in a radio book review program.

Joanne continued her own education through various pursuits such as studying literature, guitar, philosophy and religion, Sumi-e art classes and traveling.

Joanne lived life with a sense of adventure, gusto and energy which prevailed through her illness. She made friends wherever she went, had a large and forgiving heart and demonstrated great courage in her battle with cancer. She was devoted to her family and was a wonderful aunt to her nephews who she showered with great affection. She will remain an inspiration to all of us and our love for her is eternal.

Survivors include her sister, Sandra L. Regis and her brother-in-law, Mark Guido of Montgomery, N.Y.; beloved nephews, Drew and Matt Guido of Montgomery, N.Y.; aunt, Dorothy Regis of Perry, N.Y.; many supportive cousins; a large number of friends who gave her frequent reminders of their concern and care; and her special dog, Bo.

RUBY — A memorial service for Joanne Elizabeth (Regis) Ruby, who died Friday, July 22, 2011, will be at noon Saturday, July 30 at the

Thompson-Miller Funeral Home, 124 E. North St., Butler. Burial will be private.In lieu of flowers, it is Josie’s request that donations be made in her memory to the Smile Train, P.O. Box 96211, Washington, DC 20090-6211; the Foxburg Free Library, 31 Main St., Foxburg, PA 16036; the Prospect Community Library, 357 Main St., Prospect, PA 16052; or the Butler Area Public Library, 218 N. McKean St., Butler, PA 16001.Information and a private guest book are available at www.thompson-miller.com.