Naomi Ruth Fether

Fether – Naomi Ruth, “Gram”, 89, Richland Township, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, July 27, 2016 at her residence. Born on May 18, 1927 in Altoona, PA, daughter of the late Francis Isaac and Palmer Emily (Kestermont) Ritchey. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Wilbur Fether; 4 brothers, William, Francis, Leonard, and Charles Ritchey, and 4 sisters, Emma Curry, Reba Wendle, Virginia Youngkin, and Louise Alwine. She is survived by her loving children, Eric and wife, Kathy, Ligonier, PA, Laurene Harshbarger and husband, Jim, Richland Township; 6 grandchildren, Matthew Fether and wife, Lindsey, Bonney Lake, WA, Lance Harshbarger and wife, Chrissy, Nanty Glo, Marcus Fether and wife, Dinisha, Roanoke, VA, Jenica Harshbarger, Richland Township, Shane Fether and wife Rebecca, Altoona, PA, and Emily Chverchko and husband, D.J., Newry, PA; 8 great grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Mary Ann Oessenich and Marjorie Ritchey, both of Altoona, PA and numerous nieces and nephews. Naomi was a 1945 graduate of Altoona High School. She attended Shenandoah Conservatory of Music and earned her degree from Wright State University of Dayton, OH. Naomi was a teacher in Bradford School District, OH. She later retired from PA State Job Service, where she interviewed for job placement. Naomi spent her life serving the Lord and her church through vocal and instrumental music ministry; teaching Sunday School, and multiple activities as a pastor’s wife. She was a deeply devoted and loving mother, grandmother and friend. Naomi’s family would like express their thanks to her many caregivers and Windber Hospice. Friends will be received from 4-8 p.m. on Friday at the Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland and from 1 p.m. until time of service at 2 p.m. on Saturday at Johnstown Alliance Church, where she attended, with the Pastor John Brownlee officiating. Private interment will be at Alto Rest Cemetery, Altoona. The family suggests contributions be directed to Genesis Christian Academy, 161 McArthur Street, Johnstown, PA 15904 for the Gram Fether Memorial Scholarship Fund in memory of Naomi. On line condolences may be posted to www.wharrisfuneralhome.com.