April 27, 1933 – August 4 2025
Anna Ruthe Tyson, known as Tye to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2025, at the age of 92. Born and raised in Farmville, North Carolina and a long-time resident of Menlo Park, Ruthe lived a life filled with passion, adventure, and an unwavering commitment to education and friendship.
Ruthe’s journey began at Meredith, a liberal arts women’s college in Raleigh, North Carolina, which shaped her lifelong dedication to learning and excellence. After graduation, she worked for several years as a chemist in North Carolina before a friend invited her on a cross-country adventure west,
marking the beginning of her next chapter. Once in California, Ruthe transitioned into teaching, becoming a chemistry teacher and eventually Chair of the Science Department at Burlingame High School. Throughout her career, she was well- loved and respected by students and colleagues alike. After retirement, Ruthe’s commitment to education continued as she worked in the Mentor Program at Stanford University Graduate School of Education, sharing her wisdom and experience with the next generation of educators.
Ruthe was a woman who embraced life with remarkable enthusiasm and joy. Her home was always open for parties and potluck dinners. She and Darla shared an A-frame cabin at Lake Tahoe, where they spent countless happy days creating memories with friends and family that would last a lifetime.
Ruthe had a love for the outdoors, sports, and the arts. Her adventurous spirit took her on golfing trips to Maui, long vacations in Europe, and hiking adventures to Half Dome in Yosemite. She enjoyed hiking, skiing, swimming, playing tennis, and was an avid fan of the Stanford women’s basketball team. Ruthe also had a passion for music, loved going to the symphony, and sang in a choir.
She leaves behind a legacy of meaningful friendships, unwavering generosity, and a life fully lived. Those who knew her were truly blessed. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date to honor Ruthe. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hidden Villa, Los Altos, CA, in her memory.
I am devastated to hear of Ruthe’s passing. She was a dear friend whom I worked with a Burlingame high School and who became a colleague working in BTSa and sharing teaching ideas. We visited her in Tahoe often and in her Menlo Park home with Darla. Such a loss.