Ruby Darling (Robinson) DeGiovanni

Ruby Darling (Robinson) DeGiovanni, 95, of Colorado Springs, CO and formerly of Middletown, wife of the late Joseph I. DeGiovanni, passed away on June 19, 2021 at her home.  Born in Middletown, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Ruby (Darling) Robinson.

 Ruby grew up in East Hampton and then lived most of her life in Middletown before moving to Colorado.  She was a former member of First Congregational Church in Middletown and a member of Ivoryton Congregational Church. 

       Ruby worked for several years in Reston, Virginia as a Housing manager.  Retiring brought her back to her beloved hometown of Middletown.  Proud of her 5 children, she was also very proud to have been one individual who made a difference in thousands of other peoples’ lives!  This accomplishment took her journey to the floor of the US Congress.  Odd injury occurred in 1985, when at the age of 59 she was playing baseball and while jumping a fence to catch a fly ball, she fell.  The injury caused her to become handicapped.  A road that lead her to standing in front of the US Congress, with then Congressman Sam Gejdenson, to present a Universal Handicap Bill that would become law and impact Handicap Parking though out our country.  This bill became federal law.  The law requires each State to recognize a handicap parking placard from any State issued. Prior to this law, a handicap placard was only recognized in the State it was issued.   An impressive accomplishment for one determined woman. Ruby’s faith in God gave her strength and determination. 

Ruby is survived by a son, Bernie Meisler of Middletown; two daughters, Cheryl Walker of Keswick, VA and Kim Hartzog and husband George Hartzog of Colorado Springs, CO; a grandson, Gale David Hartzog and his wife Christa, and four great grandchildren, Briscilla, Dracyleen, Druwhreen and Gideon. She had many fond memories enjoying the company of her many nieces and nephews.

Along with her husband and parents, Ruby was predeceased two sons Richard and David Meisler; two brothers, Charles and Fred Robinson; two sisters, Doris Jeanette and Dorothy Robinson; half brother, Clifford Fuller and half sister, Emeline Fuller.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 9th at 11:00 am at the Doolittle Funeral Home, 14 Old Church Street, Middletown.  Burial will follow in State Veteran Cemetery.

Family and friends may call on Friday morning before the service from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at the funeral home.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Ruby’s memory may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.  To share memories or send condolences to the family, please visit www.doolittlefuneralservice.com.

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