Ruth V. Dauphinee Obituary (1928 - 2013)

WILLIMANTIC- Ruth V. Leighton Dauphinee, age 84, went home to be with her Lord on January 18, 2013 after a long illness. She died contentedly at home in the company of her loving family. Ruth was born October 31, 1928, the daughter of Linwood Leighton and Ella (Preble) Leighton of Willimantic. She graduated from Guilford High School in 1946. After attending college for teachers in Farmington and Gorham, she taught for 2 years in a country school in Willimantic. Ruth has been the faithful and loving wife of William "Bill" Dauphinee since April 9, 1950. Her life has been one of service to her family, church, and community, plus countless individuals who have been blessed to have experienced her hospitality, grace, and love in so many small ways. She is survived by her husband, Bill; her son and daughter-in-law, Steve and Deanna Dauphinee of Willimantic; and her daughter, Linda Stade of Glenburn. She also leaves 8 grandchildren, Tammy Jost of TN, Troy Dauphinee of ME, Heather MacKenzie of Nova Scotia, Eric Dauphinee of VT, Michael Stade of CO, Adam Stade of FL, Naomi Aneloski of CO, and Hannah Stade of ME. She has 18 great grandchildren, many of whom were privileged to sit on her lap and absorb her love. She is also survived by her brother, Milton Leighton and his wife Barbara of NJ; and her sister, Diane Bonsey of Dover-Foxcroft; as well as many nieces and nephews. She also leaves her longtime friend, Marilyn Buchanan, with whom she shared many special memories. She was predeceased by her sisters, Carol Budden and Barbara Fairbrother. She will be sorely missed. She passed on a simple love of people, God and Creation to all those she came in contact with. Her cooking and gardening skills have blessed those around her for many years. Many can testify of the absolute acceptance and love felt when in her presence. Visiting hours will be held Tuesday, January 22, 2013 from 2 to 4 pm and 6 to 8 pm at Crosby & Neal, 21 Oak Street in Guilford. Funeral services will be held 2 PM, Wednesday, January 23rd at the Willimantic Community Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to her beloved church, Willimantic Community Church, 2371 Elliotsville Rd., Willimantic, ME 04443.