Ruth Wilson

Wilson, Ruth R.

Age 83, formerly of 504 North Porter Street, Watkins Glen died on May 2, 2010 at Seneca View Nursing Home, Montour Falls after a lengthy illness. She was born July 4, 1926 at home on Church Road in Reading Center, NY, the daughter of Theodore L. and Florence Sproul Richtmyer. After completing her elementary education at the age of 10, Ruth graduated from the Watkins Glen High School at the age 14. To date, the youngest graduate of the Watkins Glen Central School District. After graduation, Ruth went to work for the law office of Attorney Clair Barkman and later for Columbia Gas Company. She met and married Stewart P. Wilson on November 1, 1947. After spending some time on the family farm, Ruth went back to work for Delivan Gates, a marketer for Sinclair Refining and owner of the Pontiac Dealership in Watkins Glen. In the early 1960’s, Ruth and Stewart bought the oil business and established Stewart P. Wilson Oil, as it is still known today. They owned and operated it until they retired in 1978.

Surviving are her son Kenneth J. Wilson, daughter Marilyn W. Cross, three grandchildren Jenny (Thomas) Lewis, Ashley Cross and Emily Cross, great grandchildren Tyler Couch and Emma Lewis, son-in-law, Robert W. Cross and daughter-in-law, Mary W. Wilson, brother Richard (Irene) Richtmyer and a very close cousin, Charlena R. Brown. Also, several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Ruth was predeceased by her husband Stewart on May 6, 1999, her parents Theodore and Florence Richtmyer, infant son, James Michael Wilson, and beloved granddaughter, Melissa B. Wilson. Ruth was a caring and loving grandmother who adored her grandchildren. She was gracious and giving, always ready to help others. Ruth was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Watkins Glen where she served as treasurer and financial secretary for over 25 years. In 2003, she received the Christian Women of the year Award from her church. Also, a member of the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary, past member and president of the Business and Professional Women.

Family and friends are invited to call at the Royce Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 East 4th Street, Watkins Glen, NY, Tuesday, May 4 from 4:00-7:00 pm, with funeral service honoring her life on Wednesday, May 5 at 3:30 pm at the First Presbyterian Church of Watkins Glen with Reverend Beverly Karr-Lyon officiating. Ruth will be laid to rest with her husband, Stewart and son James at the Glenwood Cemetery. Memorial gifts may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Watkins Glen, 520 North Decatur Street, Watkins Glen, NY or Seneca View Nursing Home c/o Schuyler Hospital, 220 Steuben Street, Montour Falls, NY. The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Seneca View for their compassionate care and the many caregivers who assisted Ruth during the past several years of her declining health. Special thanks to her friend, Marie Rhoads for always being at her side during her final days. You may sign a guestbook or “Light A Candle” online at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com