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 and was the daughter of J. Norton and Mildred (Cushing) Ewart.

Ruth 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. She obtained a Master's degree in Speech Therapy, demonstrating her dedication to her profession and her students.

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. 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 Trans-Siberian Orchestra with her daughter Heather.

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, Tiffanie Smith, James Hill, and Jesse and Christopher Geno. Ruth was affectionately known as GiGi or 2G to her great-grandchildren: Caleb Ruthhart, Harper, Logan, and Adrian. She is also survived by her brother, James Ewart, and her sister-in-law Bonnie (Gordon) Kaiser.

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 Chatham United Methodist Church, 13 Kinderhook Street, Chatham, NY 12037, The Hendrick Hudson Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, 113 Warren Street, Hudson, NY 12534 or to the Community Hospice, 47 Liberty Street, Catskill, NY 12414. Arrangements are entrusted to Robert M. Donaghue, of French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home, Chatham.