Remembering Ruth Raskin: Photographer, Mother and Advocate

(The following was submitted by Allison Raskin, daughter of Ruth Raskin.)
Ruth Raskin, an accomplished photographer, mother, wife and grandmother, passed away on the evening of September 23 surrounded by family in her home. For the past two months, Ruth put up a tireless, brave and graceful fight against the currently fatal Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD). In a continuation of her generous spirit, she selflessly donated her brain to further research into finding a cure so other families will not have to go through a similar loss.

Since her childhood upstate in Binghamton, to her teenage years in the Bronx to her adulthood in Westchester County, Ruth has been the epitome of a New Yorker. She impressed everyone with her wit, her extensive knowledge and her (mostly black) wardrobe. She leaves behind a rich legacy of her photography, which has been shown in countless galleries in the tri-state area. From her experimental chemograms to her black and white signature style, Ruth’s keen eye showed us all how to look at the world in a different way. Her family will do their best to continue to share her powerful art with the world.

Ruth’s impact extended far past those who knew her personally. She was an outspoken and avid advocate for children struggling with mental health disorders. Her advice and guidance, shared primarily through podcasts and her youngest daughter’s writing, touched thousands all over the globe. Ruth modeled a compassionate form of motherhood that helped heal peoples’ own experiences as children struggling with their mental health, as well as taught others what type of parent they want to be. Children and adults everywhere are better off because of her far-reaching, empathetic influence.

As we lay Ruth’s body to rest, we remain engulfed by her love. Her devotion to her family was a blessing to witness and experience. She never faltered to show up for everyone around her and showed us all what it means for love to be a verb and not just a feeling. While we are devastated by losing her far too soon, we are all the better for having known her for the cherished time we did have together. She is survived by her devoted husband, Ken Raskin, her two daughters, Jocelyn Verdi and Allison Raskin, and her two granddaughters, Bella and Vienna Verdi. Her memory and humor will remain with all of us.

Her family is raising funds in her memory for research on Creutafeldt-Jakob Disease. Learn more here: