Ruth Esther Roberts

Ruth E. (Papoosha) Roberts, 66, of Marlborough passed away unexpectedly at home on Thursday December 21, 2023. Ruth was born in Hamden to the late Erwin & late Norma (Collier) Papoosha.

Ruth was a graduate from Hamden High School in 1975. After attending high school, Ruth held many jobs in Hamden that she enjoyed before settling down in Colchester in 1988 to raise her family. During her years in Colchester, Ruth enjoyed running her home daycare for fifteen years. After closing her home daycare, she was a beloved front end manager at Colchester Stop & Shop. Ruth enjoyed helping the many customers and interacting with them just as much as they were elated to come in and see her. Having retired in 2015, Ruth settled down in Marlborough.

Ruth leaves behind her son Matthew Santacroce of New Britain, daughter Joan Santacroce of New Britain and son Kimball Howes III & his wife Heather Howes of Colchester. Ruth is survived by her sister Wendy (Papoosha) Purficiato and her husband, Ronnie Purficiato of Hamden, brother Dave Papoosha and his wife, Christine Papoosha of Durham, brother Eric Papoosha and his wife, Rosemary Papoosha of Wethersfield; her two grandchildren, Salvatore & Cameron. Ruth also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends all whom she adored. Ruth was predeceased by her brother Steven Papoosha.

Ruth had a passion for camping, and throughout her life camped with her parents & siblings, anywhere from Maine and Canada down to North Carolina. She enjoyed her time outdoors, especially gardening during the warmer months. She had an admiration for animals, having owned and enjoyed her many cats over the years. Ruth loved baking and cooking, especially making her holiday baked goods for the family. She will be missed by all.

Ruth will be laid to rest at Beaverdale Memorial Park in New Haven, CT; the services will be kept private to immediate family.