PORT ALLEGANY — Ruth K. Covert, 86, of Smethport died Saturday (March 28, 2026) at UPMC Cole, Coudersport.

Born May 27, 1939, in Smethport, she was a daughter of Robert N. and Bertha M. Carey Barr. On Jan. 15, 1957, in Coudersport, she married Alan Arthur Covert, who predeceased her Dec. 20, 2005.

Ruth was a devoted Christian and attended Hilltop Baptist Church as well as Old Swedish Mission in Smethport. Ruth was a 45-year board and life member of the McKean County Fair Association and a board and life member of the McKean County Historical Society, where her research was invaluable for many families searching for their family roots in McKean County as well as supporting research for several books including, “All for the Union.” She was also a gifted writer, penning multiple historical articles and narratives. Ruth was a board and life member of Fairmount Cemetery Association and also a board member for many years of Smethport Food Bank, Order of the Eastern Star, Phoenix Chapter 15 and Smethport Area Piecemakers’ Quilters Guild.

Her family will miss her terribly but rejoice that she now sits in God’s Light. Surviving are a son, Douglas (Diana) Covert of Farmers Valley; a daughter, Lisa (Dave) Haight of Bradford; seven grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by two daughters, Kimberly C. Baker and infant Karie L. Covert; two brothers, Charles R. Barr and James F. Barr; and two sisters, Edna R. Windsor and Florence B. Carter.

A private graveside service will be held in Fairmount Cemetery, Farmers Valley.

Memorials may be made to Cameron County Outdoor Youth Activities, 269 Nickler Road, Emporium, PA 15834, or online at ccoya.org; or to Mount Jewett Memorial Library, 7 E. Main St., P.O. Box Y, Mount Jewett, PA 16740.

Arrangements are under direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Switzer Chapel, 77 Willow St. Online condolences may be expressed at olneyfoust.com.