Ruth Ellen Holder

Ruth Ellen Holder passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 1, 2025. She was born on November 25, 1954 to Robbie Partain and Willis G. Holder. She was survived by her sisters Edith Holder (Ron Krisher) and Joan Holder McConnell (Doug), as well as nieces and nephews: Emily Burke (Kevin), Curtis Gutter (Pumla Pamla-Gutter), Melissa Gutter-Jackson (Joe Jackson), Rachel McConnell (Michelle Suarez), Susan McConnell, and Daniel Holder. She was also survived by her cats Trinidad and Tobago, who have been adopted by family.

Having lived in the U.S. Virgin Islands for many years, Ruth loved to travel to see the world and any beach. Her travels took her to Japan, Europe, Mexico, and the Caribbean Islands. In Washington, DC, she was a frequent patron of the arts, enjoying theater, ballet, and the symphony. She became a fervent Washington Nationals fan. She loved to share these cultural experiences with friends and family, cook for them, and host their visits. She earned a Bachelor of General Studies degree in 2001 from The American University. During this time, she gave a home to Elijah Hood, son of her friend Bonnie. She lived a big life! Ruth was a unique character who will be missed by many.

Professionally, Ruth practiced in the field of telecoms regulatory compliance for nearly thirty years. She worked at Lawler Metzger, Dow Lohnes, Teligent, and for the last seven years at British Telecom (BT). Her intelligence, kindness, generosity, and vast knowledge were paralleled only by her charm, humour and sharp wit, which she used to brighten the lives of those around her. An optimist at heart, Ruth was passionate about her work, she was an ardent advocate for her clients and a cheerleader for all who did a good job. She knew everybody in the Washington, DC telecoms community and was oft heard to remark about a leading regulatory lawyer whom she had trained when they were a “baby lawyer.” She was hugely respected across the global regulatory community, both inside and outside of BT. Ruth was much loved by her colleagues and will be sorely missed.

Ruth was hugely passionate about mentoring young aspiring lawyers. Four years ago, with other members from Business Legal, Ruth spearheaded the establishment of the BT U.S. Legal Internship Programme, which has been hugely successful and now has four successful graduates, each of whom has moved on to great things. Going forward, and in Ruth's honour, this BT programme will be named the Ruth Holder Aspiring Lawyer Internship Programme.

Her memorial service is being planned for Saturday, August 30, 2025,11:00 AM at Washington Street United Methodist Church in Alexandria, VA. 109 S Washington St., Alexandria, Virginia, 22314-3022

In lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider making a donation in Ruth's name to any of these organizations:

-Humane Rescue Alliance. HRA is committed to protecting animals, supporting families, and advocating for positive change to create a world where all animals can thrive. https://www.humanerescuealliance.org/ 

-Fonkoze Chemen Lavi Miyò (CLM), which translates to “The Pathway to a Better Life.“ CLM empowers Haitians, primarily women, with financial and development services to lift their families out of poverty. https://fonkoze.org/