Born prematurely, weighing less than five pounds, at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu,
HI. Her mother was serving on active duty in the United States Army at the time of her birth — a
beginning marked by both service and strength. From her very first days, Mariah embodied a
quiet but undeniable resilience — a fighter’s spirit that would define her life.
Mariah’s radiant smile, compassionate heart, creativity, and generosity left a lasting imprint.
She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Izabella R. Knight (16); her son, Matthew T. Knight, and his wife, Jenny; her parents, Gail L. Ruehl and Paul A. Ruehl; her brother, Paul A. Ruehl Jr., his wife Ashley, and their children Haven and Emma; along with countless extended family members and dear friends. Mariah’s life was a testament to love, courage, and deep connection — and her spirit lives on in every heart she touched.
Mariah was a ray of sunshine in the lives of so many. As a teenager, she volunteered at the
Salvation Army youth camp, and naturally grew into the role of “team mom”, always the one to provide whatever might be needed in the moment — a snack, a bandage, a listening ear, or a ride home. Always up for an adventure and loved to dance — freely, joyfully, and often — bringing fun, laughter, and light into every room she entered. Mariah treasured her time with her daughter. Izabella was her greatest joy, her deepest pride, and the light that guided her.
Even in passing, Mariah chose to give of herself. In an extraordinary final act of generosity, she
donated her body to cancer research, continuing her legacy of compassion and hope by helping
advance medical understanding and care for others. Her impact on the world is reflected in the
many who walked beside her, supported her, and were inspired by her courage.
Mariah found special meaning in poppy flowers and dandelions — the poppy symbolizing
remembrance and sacrifice, and the dandelion representing resilience, hope, and wishes carried on the wind. Together, they remind us to honor the past while embracing the future.
May we each carry forward Mariah’s light — like a dandelion seed released into the breeze —
moving through our lives inspired by the gift of having known, loved, and been loved by her.
