Ruth Fleming Hafley

RALEIGH Ruth Fleming Hafley, 89, of Raleigh passed away at home on Saturday, February 6, 2021. Ruth was born on June 11, 1931, and grew up in Reedsville, Pennsylvania. She found her passion for music early in life playing an imaginary piano on the arm of a chair at age 4. She progressed rapidly as a pianist, finding herself in demand as an accompanist and soloist by her teens. Ruth received her formal education from Oberlin College and Penn State University earning a BS in Music Education with a major in piano. In addition to teaching piano for over 50 years, Ruth served as church organist at several Raleigh churches, directed various adult and children’s choirs, and accompanied vocal and instrumental soloists and ensembles including the Raleigh Charter High School choral groups until age 87. She greatly enjoyed instilling a life-long interest and true appreciation of music in each student, and taught many talented young musicians who have gone on to careers in music. Ruth was very active in several music organizations, serving in many capacities, including president of both the Raleigh Piano Teachers Association and the Raleigh Music Club. She was also active in the NC Music Teachers Association and American Guild of Organists. Her welcoming, hospitable and generous spirit helped each organization grow. Ruth took every opportunity to mentor younger teachers and never stopped being a student herself, attending conventions and workshops to hone her skills. Ruth inspired and touched many lives and is a lasting gift to all who knew her. She was a devoted mother and grandmother, and is remembered by her grandchildren as patient, cheerful, supportive and a good listener. She is survived by her children, Carol Flood and husband Pete, Gail Hafley and spouse Chris Merrill, Bruce Hafley and wife Paige; grandchildren, Eric Flood, Laura Flood Green and husband Vincent, Lindsey Flood, Autumn Hafley, Rachel Hafley; and sister, Martha Jane Runkle. She was preceded in death by her father, Earl Cummins McNitt and mother, Laura Alice McNitt. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorials be made in her name to the Raleigh Piano Teachers Association Scholarship Fund or Raleigh Music Club. A memorial service celebrating Ruth’s life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are by Bryan-Lee Funeral Home of Raleigh. Online condolences may be made at www.bryan-leefuneralhome.com