Ruth E. Hill

Ruth E. Hill, 92, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2026, at her residence in Chatham. Born on April 17, 1933, in Buffalo, New York she was the daughter of J. Norton and Mildred (Cushing) Ewart. She met Hellen Keller while in high school, which inspired her to pursue a career as a speech therapist. She obtained a Master's degree in Speech Therapy and began her professional journey with the Jamestown School District before transitioning to Chatham, where she taught speech therapy at the College of Saint Rose. Her career later brought her to the Anderson School in Staatsburg, New York, where she continued to impart her knowledge and skills.

Ruth's life was filled with adventure and a love for travel. Even in her nineties, she remained an enthusiastic explorer, having climbed to the top of waterfalls in Jamaica and zip lined over Niagara Falls. She embraced life with a strong will and a spirit that inspired those around her. Ruth was deeply involved in her church community, serving as a Lay Leader and exemplifying a profound faith that touched many lives. Additionally, she was an active member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Hendrick Hudson Chapter, where she diligently served as treasurer. Her warm heart and generous spirit shone through in her participation in community activities and shared experiences, including lively outings to see the TSO with her daughters Heather and Cindy.
Beyond her professional accomplishments and community involvement, Ruth held her family close to her heart.

She is survived by her five beloved children: Deborah Carter, James Scott (Michelle) Hill, Cindy (James) Geno, Heather Hill, and Kerry (Kerrie Kovaleski) Hill. Additionally, she leaves behind seven loving grandchildren: Corey Carter, Lori Marie, Theodore Kebra Nagast Nelson, Tifanie Smith, James Hill and Jesse and Christopher Geno. Ruth was affectionately known as GiGi and 2G to her great-grandchildren: Caleb, Harper, Logan, and Adrian. She is also survived by her brother, James Ewart, and her sisters-in-law Bonnie (Gordon) Kaiser and Patricia Ewart.Ruth was predeceased by her husband, James Hill, who passed away in 2001, as well as her brothers Robert and Donald Ewart and sister in law, Nancy Ewart.

A time for sharing memories and offering condolences will be on Thursday, March 5th from Noon to 2:00 pm at the funeral home, 25 Railroad Avenue, Chatham, New York. A funeral service will commence at 2:00 pm and will be officiated by Pastor Squires of the Chatham United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ruth's memory may be made to the The Hendrick Hudson Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, 113 Warren Street, Hudson, NY 12534, Community Hospice, 47 Liberty Street, Catskill, NY 12414 or Chatham United Methodist Church, 13 Kinderhook Street, Chatham, NY 12037. Arrangements are entrusted to Robert M. Donaghue, of French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home, Chatham.