In a deeply emotional moment for fans of Days of Our Lives and the world of television at large, it is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of a beloved star. Ruth Buzzi, the legendary actress known for her unforgettable portrayal of Leticia Bradford, has passed away at the age of 88, leaving a void in the hearts of fans, co-stars, and the entertainment industry.

Ruth’s passing signifies more than the loss of a gifted performer—it marks the end of an era for Days of Our Lives and the broader television community. Known for her impeccable comedic timing and quirky characters, Ruth brought joy to millions over her decades-long career, and her contribution to both drama and comedy will never be forgotten.

Buzzi’s role on Days of Our Lives as Leticia Bradford, the eccentric cousin of Eugene Bradford, was one that stood out in Salem’s often dark and tangled web of secrets. Leticia’s offbeat humor, bold personality, and tender loyalty to her family offered much-needed comic relief, especially during some of the show’s most dramatic moments. She was a breath of fresh air in a world filled with scandal and sorrow, and fans quickly embraced her. It was Ruth’s unique approach to the role—infusing Leticia with heart, wit, and whimsy—that turned the character into a true fan favorite.

But Ruth Buzzi’s career extended far beyond Salem. Born on July 24, 1936, in Westerly, Rhode Island, Ruth grew up in the scenic town of Stonington, Connecticut. Her early life near the water’s edge fueled a natural curiosity and creative spirit that would later drive her passion for the arts. After moving to New York City, Ruth dove into the world of performance, sharpening her skills and eventually breaking into the entertainment industry.

Her big break came with the groundbreaking variety show Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In, which aired from 1968 to 1973. On that show, Ruth became a household name thanks to her hilarious sketches and memorable characters. She earned a Golden Globe Award and five Emmy nominations during that time, a testament to her comedic brilliance and ability to connect with audiences. Ruth’s humor wasn’t just funny—it was smart, fearless, and often had a deeper emotional layer that touched hearts.

Even after Laugh-In, Ruth continued to dazzle in various television roles, stage productions, and films. She never limited herself to one genre or character type. Whether she was playing a sharp-tongued neighbor, a tender-hearted friend, or a zany misfit, she brought authenticity to every role. And that’s what made her special. Ruth Buzzi wasn’t just an actress—she was a storyteller, one who made you laugh and feel all at once.

Fans of Days of Our Lives will always cherish Ruth’s time on the show. Her character Leticia Bradford wasn’t just a source of laughs—she was a grounding force during turbulent storylines. Her chemistry with Eugene, her knack for getting into mischief, and her undeniable charm turned Leticia into one of the most endearing characters the soap has ever seen. Ruth’s time in Salem may have been relatively brief compared to some, but the impact she made was immense.

Behind the scenes, Ruth faced her own personal battles. In her later years, she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease—a cruel and devastating illness that slowly took away her memories and vitality. Despite the challenges, Ruth faced the disease with bravery and grace, surrounded by her loving family. On May 1, 2025, Ruth passed away peacefully in her sleep at her home in Texas, as confirmed in a touching announcement on her official Facebook page. Her family shared that she had been receiving home care for years and asked for donations to be made to Alzheimer’s research in her honor instead of flowers.

This request speaks volumes about Ruth’s enduring spirit and selflessness. Even in death, she continues to give—to help others, to fight for awareness, and to inspire change. Her legacy now lives on not only through her remarkable body of work but also through the charitable acts inspired by her memory.

The loss of Ruth Buzzi is being felt deeply across generations of fans and colleagues. She was more than just a star—she was a pioneer. She broke boundaries, redefined what it meant to be a comedic actress, and gave voice to characters who might otherwise have been dismissed. Her contributions helped shape the landscape of television comedy and drama alike.

Though Ruth is no longer with us, the joy she brought into our lives lives on. Her work remains timeless, her laughter echoes through our memories, and her legacy will be carried forward by those who knew her, loved her, and watched her work with admiration.

As we remember Ruth Buzzi, we encourage Days of Our Lives fans and all who cherished her to honor her memory by supporting Alzheimer’s research. It’s a cause close to her family’s heart, and a meaningful way to ensure Ruth’s impact continues to make a difference.

We say goodbye to Ruth Buzzi not with tears alone, but with gratitude—for the years of laughter, the characters who became our friends, and the warmth she shared with the world. Ruth, thank you for everything. You will never be forgotten.