Ruth L. Chaffee

Ruth L. Chaffee, a lifelong resident of Wethersfield died Monday, (May 19, 2003). Born in Hartford, she was the daughter of the late Ralph P. and Jessie (Adams) Chaffee. After graduation from Wethersfield High School, Ruth attended T.C.C. (now CCSU), Columbia University, the University of Hartford, UCONN. She taught in Willington for one year and then in Newington for 34 years as an elementary teacher, reading consultant, and during the last 24 years, as principal of the Southeast School in Newington. Upon her retirement the school was renamed in her honor. Since retiring she had remained active organizing groups; the Christmas booth and the senior trip committees at First Church; the Education and Oral History Committee at the Wethersfield Historical Society; and the retired educators of Newington. She was predeceased by two sisters Dorothy Chaffee and Genie Spencer, and two brothers Gerrit and Burton Chaffee. A memorial service will be held on May 31, at 10:30 a.m. in the Meetinghouse at First Church of Christ, 250 Main St. Wethersfield with the Rev. Dr. J. Jey Deifell officiating. Burial is private. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ruth L. Chaffee School Media Center, 160 Superior Ave. Newington 06111, the First Church of Christ, Wethersfield, or the Wethersfield Historical Society, 150 Main St. Wethersfield 06109. The James T. Pratt Funeral Service, Wethersfield is in charge of arrangements.