Lillian Baptiste (Correia) Ruey

Lillian B. Ruey

May 14, 1933 – April 9, 2025

Lillian “Lee” B. Ruey, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, friend, and great-grandmother, passed away in her home on April 9, 2025, at the age of 91. Born in New Bedford, Massachusetts, Lee made her home in Prospect, Connecticut, where she shared 69 years of marriage with her devoted husband, Robert “Bob” Ruey.

Lee had a flair for creativity and a keen eye for beauty. She loved painting, ceramics, and crafts of all kinds, and was known for her impeccable sense of style. Lee spent much of her professional life in retail, and later, alongside her husband, owned and operated the Park East Café in Waterbury, Connecticut before retiring from the restaurant business.

More than anything, Lee treasured her family. Being a grandmother brought her immense joy, and she leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter. She is survived by her loving husband, Robert Ruey of Prospect, Connecticut; her daughter, Doreen Dressel; her granddaughters and their husbands, Abigail Dressel (Joao Pignatelli); and Annie (Mike) Hudson; and five cherished great-grandchildren, William, Charles, Caroline, Joao Maria, and Stella. She is also lovingly remembered by Joe and Rosemary Gurga who are like a second family to her. 

Lee was predeceased by her parents and her three siblings—Alverio, Laura, and Olympia. Her family and all who knew her will miss her deeply but take comfort in the many joyful memories she leaves behind.

Visitation will be held on Monday April 14, 2025 from 9 am to 10 am at Prospect Memorial/ The Palmerie Family Funeral, 122 Waterbury Rd., Prospect, followed by A Mass of Christian burial at 10:30 am at St. Anthony’s Church, 4 Union City Rd., Prospect.  Burial will immediately follow at All Saints Cemetery, Waterbury.  Prospect Memorial/ The Palmerie Family Funeral Home is honored to be assisting and caring for the Ruey family during this difficult time.  For information, directions or to share your condolences, please visit prospectmemorial.com.  In honor of Lee, the family asks that you take a moment to call a loved one, share a story, or wear something that makes you feel fabulous in her honor, as she always did. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to St. Anthony’s Roman Catholic Church, Prospect are greatly appreciated.

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