Ruth E. Silva, 81, of Allentown, died Wednesday, January 24, 2018, in her home.  She was the wife of the late Arthur L. Silva, who died in 2012.

Born in Staten Island, NY, she was a daughter of the late Jule and Florence (Carlson) Christiansen.  The family moved to New Jersey where she loved the beach.  In her early years she took the ferry to work at the Telephone Company in New York City.

Ruth was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Allentown.  She loved the beach, traveling and shopping.

She is survived by a daughter, Allison M. Silva, with whom she resided; sons, Arthur C. Silva, and wife Rebecca of Columbus, OH and Peter M. Silva, and wife Lynda of Tinton Falls, NJ; and a brother, Robert Christiansen of Bethlehem.  She was predeceased by a sister, Marion Froisland.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, February 1, in Bethlehem Memorial Park.  Arrangements by the Pearson Funeral Home, Bethlehem.

Memorial donations may be sent to the Alzheimer's Association, 399 Market St., Suite #102, Philadelphia, PA 19106.

Online condolences may be sent to www.pearsonfh.com.