Ruth Eliza Dollens Chiles

Ruth Eliza Dollens Chiles

Ruth Eliza Dollens Chiles, 87, passed away peacefully at her home in Batesville, on Friday, July 30, 2021.

Ruth was born in Charlottesville, Va., to the late Philip Huff and Bettie Cook Dollens on September 20, 1933. She grew up in Midway and attended Greenwood High School and Mary Washington College. In 1961, she married Henry and embraced her life as an orchardist's wife. She quickly made her mark in the family business by serving on governor-appointed agriculture advisory committees and state associations. Ruth was the heart and soul of Chiles Peach Orchard and Carter Mountain Orchard, which were originated by and under her direction for many years. Her sweet smile, sense of humor, and warm personality were widely known by all.

She was an accomplished pianist and gave of her gifts unselfishly, volunteering at Tabor Presbyterian Church as choir director and organist for almost 50 years. She played piano and organ for musicals, weddings, and funerals, and taught piano lessons for many years. As the first woman member of the Crozet Lions Club, Ruth directed their annual variety show for 50 years and was active in all their activities. She was an avid bowler and enjoyed participating in various leagues throughout her life.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Jerry, Phil, Alfred, and Bill.

Ruth is survived by her husband of 60 years, Henry M. Chiles of Batesville; her children, Cynthia Chiles and husband, Charlie Touchette, of Crozet, Huff Chiles and wife, Judy Woodson Chiles, of Batesville, and Sarah Chiles of Crozet; and her grandchildren, Lizzy, Ally, and Henry Chiles, all of Batesville. She is also survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Marvin and Dottie Dollins of Waynesboro; sisters-in-law, Charlotte Dollins and Eva Dollens, both of Crozet; brother-in-law, Thomas R. Keith of Ivy; numerous nieces and nephews, many friends, and "Kitty-Kitty", her beloved companion.

Ruth loved life and the people she surrounded herself with and dedicated herself to. She truly enjoyed spending time with her three grandchildren, who adored her endlessly. Ruth will be deeply and sorely missed by her family and friends, her church, and her community.

Visitation will be held Sunday, August 1, 2021, from 5 until 7 p.m. at Anderson Funeral Home in Crozet.

Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. on Monday, August 2, 2021, at Tabor Presbyterian Church, Crozet. Burial will be private.

Memorial gifts in her name can be made to Tabor Presbyterian Church. Ruth's family loved and cared for her tirelessly at home til the end, and they give sincere thanks to her doctors, her caregiver Alison Hereford, and Hospice of the Piedmont for their support.