HOPEWELL JUNCTION – Marie V. "Mitzi" Ruffell, 79, an area resident for 40 years and previously of New Rochelle, died on Saturday, February 1, 2014 at the Kaplan Family Hospice Residence.

Born in North Pelham on October 25, 1934, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Charlotte (Wagner) Guccione. On May 19, 1956 at the Church of St. Catharine in Pelham, she married Edwin T. "Teddy" Ruffell who predeceased her on October 11, 2013 after 57 years of marriage.

An avid tennis player, Mitzi was a member of the Americana Club in Hopewell Junction where she enjoyed playing and laughing for many hours with her beloved friends who will never be forgotten. She was a gardener, who took pride in her many flowers and was a member of the Vanderbilt Association Garden Club for over 17 years.

Mitzi is survived by her son, Michael Ruffell and his companion Louise Rose of Germantown; her daughter, Catherine Secor and her husband David of Beacon; her granddaughter, Kaitlyn Secor formerly of Beacon and now residing in Avondale, AZ; her grandson, Gregory Secor of Beacon; her sister, Frances Colotti of North White Plains, her brother, Charles "Sonny" Guccione of Fort Pierce, FL; and her best friend since childhood, Marilyn "Minnie" Kroning and her husband Charles of New Rochelle. Mitzi will always be remembered as a proud wife, mother, and grandmother.

Calling hours will begin at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 5th followed by a Memorial Service at 5:30 p.m. at the McHoul Funeral Home, Inc., 895 Route 82, Hopewell Junction. For driving directions or online condolences, please visit Mitzi's Book of Memories at www.mchoulfuneralhome.com.