Ruth M. McClellan

Ruth M. McClellan, 84, of Bethlehem Twp., formerly of Philadelphia, passed away Saturday, November 7, 2026 at St. Luke's Hospital-Anderson Campus. She was the wife of the late Lyle L. McClellan, Jr. Ruth was born in Philadelphia on December 15, 1941 to the late Peter and Cecilia Margaret (Palermo) Leggieri. She dedicated 35 years of her life to Shriners Hospital for Children, where her compassionate nature and unwavering commitment to her work made a lasting impact on the lives of many young patients and their families. She took great joy in her role as a nursing assistant, where her kindness and nurturing spirit shone bright.

A devoted mother, Ruth cherished her family above all else. Her home was filled with the warmth of her delicious cooking and baking, and her love for music, especially the tunes of the 70s, resonated in the hearts of those who knew her.

Ruth's life was a testament to the values of love, service, and dedication. Her legacy will endure through the many lives she touched and her cherished family.

Survivors: daughter: Kimberly and her husband Larry Chapel of Bethlehem Twp; son: Peter and his wife Jackie McClellan of Australia; brother: Joseph "Sony" Leggieri of Upper Darby; sisters: Judith Leggieri of Ocean City, NJ, Margaret "Peggy" Leggieri of Florida. Predeceased by her son: Lyle L. McClellan, III who died March 3, 2025.

Services: Family and friends are invited to her viewing 1-2:30 pm Saturday, November 14, 2026 at the Connell Funeral Home, Inc. 245 East Broad Street, Bethlehem, PA followed by a prayer service at 2:30 pm. The burial will be private. Online condolences can be made at connellfuneral.com

Contributions: In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607. shrinerschildrens.org