The Scioto Foundation has announced the establishment of the Star Inc., Tonya Ruggles Memorial Scholarship Fund, created to honor a long-time employee of the community organization. To be eligible for the scholarship, a student must be an employee of Star, Inc. or the child or grandchild of an employee of Star Inc. Students may attend the post-secondary school of their choice.
The volunteer scholarship committee of the Scioto Foundation will make annual selections on behalf of the Board of Governors.
Tonya Sue Crabtree Ruggles from Lucasville was 51 years old when she died on October 26, 2024 at her home. She was born January 30, 1973 in Portsmouth to the late Farrell Lewis Crabtree and Mary L. Hiles Crabtree.
Ruggles worked as an Activity and Outreach Coordinator at Star, Inc. Adult Services. According to fellow employees, she enjoyed her job and loved helping people every chance she had. Ruggles also loved the change in the seasons, although the Christmas season was her favorite, her family said.
“Tonya had a heart of gold and was always smiling; she lit up the room when she walked in and everyone who ever met Tonya loved her,” according to family and friends. “Tonya loved traveling with her husband Mike and her friends to different places. She loved spending her extra time with her family and loved being around her grandchildren cooking and enjoying family meals together.
Ruggles was married to Michael Ruggles and had a daughter, two stepsons, a stepdaughter, three grandchildren, four step grandchildren and three dogs.
Additional information about the Star, Inc. Tonya Ruggles Memorial Scholarship Fund or other scholarship opportunities may be obtained by contacting Ginnie Moore, Scholarships and Grants Coordinator, at the Scioto Foundation, (740) 354-4612, or ginnie@thesciotofoundation.