Ruth Miles Obituary
Ruth M. (Hacker) Miles, age 99 ½ years old, died peacefully on Januray 5, 2026 while in the comfort of her family. Ruth was born at home in East Bridgewater in 1926 and was raised by her loving parents, the late William and May ( Gurney) Hacker and grew up in East Bridgewater.
She was a graduate of East Bridgewater High School. She followed in the family tradition and worked for the railroad company. Her primary job as someone new to the field was to hold a stop sign at the rte 106 crossing each time the train would come by.She met a young man who would consistently wave and say hi each morning and afternoon on his way to and from work. Howard and Ruth eventually began dating and would marry on Nov. 27th 1948.
Ruth and Howard settled in West Bridgewater where they raised their children. Ruth was a devoted mother to her three children and helped answer the phones and schedule appointments for Howard's company, Miles Oil Service. She loved reading, collecting seaglass and old bottles, being with her family, and attending church. Ruth was an active member of the Cochesett United Methodist Church in West Bridgewater. She taught Sunday School there for many years and was an active member of the women's bible group.
She was a good neighbor and friend to many. Ruth enjoyed people and she especially loved chatting and catching up in her kitchen with a fresh cup of coffee. Later in life, Ruth and Howard enjoyed traveling; some of their favorite spots were New Hampshire, Florida, and Cape Cod. Ruth proudly lived on her own until the age of 95. If you knew Ruth you understood she could be a "bit" stubborn at times and that her witty sense of humor was always in good fun. She will be missed by all who knew her.
Ruth was the loving wife of the late Howard G. Miles and devoted mother of Susan L. Johnson and her husband Charles of West Bridgewater, Karoline R. Willis and her husband Steven of East Bridgewater, and the late Gerald H. Miles. Loving "Gramma" of Karoline, Susanna, Robert, Gregory, Erik, Amanda, Michael, and Paige. Also survived by 9 great grandchildren, and she was predeceased by her brother John Hacker and two infant siblings.
All are cordially invited to the Chapman Funerals and Cremations, 98 Bedford St. Bridgewater on Monday Jan. 12 for a visitation period from 10:00am -11:00am. A funeral home service will start at 11:00am and the burial be held at Pine Hill Cemetery, West Bridgewater.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Animal Protection Center of Southeastern Massachusetts by clicking here.