Obituary of Joshua F. Ruiz

Joshua Ruiz of Arlington, Virginia, passed away on December 8, 2021.

Josh was the beloved son of Stephanie Ruiz and Robert Ruiz, and of step-father, Chris Richter. His best friend was always his twin brother, Jonathan, and he was dear to his siblings, Abby and Ben. His family and his many devoted friends will greatly miss his easy laugh; the mischievous twinkle in his eye that warned of a coming witty comment or hilariously outlandish story; his deep and probing intellect; and his loving heart and tender soul.

Josh was a student at the University of Michigan and an alumnus of Washington & Lee High School in Arlington. He loved games of all types, but video games most. He loved reading books, favoring the classics, fantasy, and philosophy. Perhaps more than anything else, he loved to laugh, and he always made it easy to join him in that laughter.

In recent years, Josh had battled addiction and depression and showed the most intense courage many of us have seen, as he got up each time he stumbled and continued to work and fight. He was – and we are – deeply grateful to the many who helped and supported him throughout this fight.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any donations be made to one of the many deserving programs and homes that support those fighting the horrible disease of addiction. We would highlight two – Nick’s Place and The Men’s Home of Alexandria – that were especially meaningful and caring in Josh’s journey.

We will hold a remembrance celebration of Josh’s life on Sunday, December 19, from 2-5 p.m., with a sharing of memories at 3. The celebration will take place at Galilee United Methodist Church, in Sterling, Virginia; a live-stream option will be available for those who cannot travel to attend. With so many loved ones coming from outside of the area, we respectfully request that all plan to wear a mask when not eating or drinking at the event.