Ruth J. Smith

Ruth Joanna Smith (Batakis) died peacefully in the home she loved at the age of 95. Ruth was a staple of Fuller Street for 73 years. She was also the rock of her family. Beloved wife of the late Marshall Smith, mother to Marshall Smith of Waltham, Linda Smith and her husband John Weigel of Reading, Stanley Smith and his wife Judy (Ryan) of Randolph and Laurie Smith and her significant other Mike Aliseo of Waltham and her beloved niece, June Bowser-Barrett (Batakis) of Sandwich. Grandmother to Christopher Smith, Benjamin Smith, Steven Smith, Brian Hanley, Julie Hanley, Leah Weigel and Susan Weigel. Ruth also leaves behind four great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents Stanislaus and Josephine (Rimkus) and her brothers Stanley and Alfred.

Ruth was born, at home, in Bedford, Massachusetts where her family owned a farm. She often talked about the hard work required on the farm, including planting and harvesting the beans, corn and tomatoes, collecting the eggs and milking the cows. That work ethic, instilled as a child, continued throughout her life. Her mother made sauerkraut, cheese, bread, and beer that were served at the weekly piano parties, in their large farmhouse, with Lithuanian family and friends. When she was ten her father was killed by a car in Lexington. In 1940, prior to WWII, the farm was taken by eminent domain to build Hanscom Field. This was devastating to her family.

After the war Ruth worked at the Liggett cosmetic counter on Moody Street. It was there where she met her husband Marshall who was working at Thom McCann's shoe store. After their marriage in 1948 they moved into a small apartment on the third floor of Fuller Street. When the home went up for sale they purchased it. She was so proud of her home. After a life on the farm she was thrilled to live in the City of Waltham with all it had to offer.

Ruth was an employee of New England Telephone and Newton Wellesley Hospital. After her children were grown, she found a job she truly enjoyed as the beloved receptionist at Hewlett Packard Corporation retiring in her 70's.

The stores of Natick Mall and Framingham have lost a key contributor to their revenue – she did love to shop!

Ruth also enjoyed travelling with friends and perhaps most of all hosting parties throughout the year. Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings welcomed family and friends to enjoy great food, fun and friendship.

She lived to love and she loved her family.

Funeral Services are private.

In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to The Salvation Army.