Ruth E. Jones, 74, of Watertown, passed into eternal life on June 6, 2020, surrounded by her family. Ruth Eileen Chambers was born on December 10, 1945, in Monroe, the daughter of Evan and Edna (nee Stabenow) Chambers. She was a 1964 graduate of Monroe High School and attended the University of Wisconsin Platteville as an art major where she met her future husband, Neale Jones. They were married on July 3, 1965, at Grace Lutheran Church in Monroe. Their deep love and affection for each other were an example for many throughout their 55 years together.
Though she was not able to complete her college art degree, Ruth’s life was a work of art; from her beautiful family to her many creative pursuits. She fulfilled her artistic avocation through liturgical art for church, including banners, murals, paraments, and stoles; and sewing wedding, prom dresses, bridesmaid dresses, baptismal clothes, and quilts. Later in life, she distinguished herself with her work in acrylics and watercolors, displaying her work and winning prizes at local and regional art shows.
Ruth also loved music. She paid for her own voice lessons as a teen and continued some piano and voice lessons as an adult. She was a member of the Euterpe Music Club in Watertown for years; sang in the church choir; and performed solo vocal work for fundraisers, recitals, funerals, and weddings.
All who knew Ruth were touched by her love and generosity. She was deeply involved with her church as a Sunday school teacher, on worship and music committee, and fundraising and stewardship initiatives. Ruth served as a mentor for dozens of young people. She was a 4-H leader, confirmation mentor, and shared the gift of art, sewing, and baking by teaching the skills to many others.
Ruth enjoyed her retirement by being actively involved in the lives of her family and grandchildren. She also enjoyed special trips with Neale and remained vibrant with yoga, swimming, exercise classes, coffee gatherings with friends, painting, and sewing. Before retirement, Ruth was employed as a bookkeeper and administrative assistant at Ed Killeen Heating & Cooling, Jones Trucking and Jones Brothers Livestock, Melcher Equipment, Watertown Orthopedics, and was a financial secretary for Immanuel Lutheran Church in Watertown.
Ruth is survived by her husband, Neale Jones; children, Aaron (Jill) Jones, Jason (Michelle) Jones, Carrie Jones, and Maggie (James) Stansfield; grandchildren, Kaitlin (Elliot) Barnes, Lauren Jones, Cora (Jarod) Peirick, Emma Jones, Erin Jones, Amelia Boer, Phillip Stansfield, and Loren Stansfield; brother, Stephen (Bernie) Chambers; brothers-in-law, James Smith and Stanley (Sherry) Jones; sister-in-law, Nancy (Dan) Gildner as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; granddaughter, Morgan in infancy; and siblings, Victor, Judith, and Lynn.
Ruth’s family would like to thank the staff of Rainbow Hospice for the great care she received. A public Celebration of Life will be held at later date. Memorials, if desired, can be sent to the Immanuel Lutheran Church of Watertown, Building Fund, or to the charity of one’s choice. Hafemeister Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Watertown is serving the family. Online condolences may be made at www.hafemeisterfh.com
Hafemeister Funeral Home and Cremation Service
611 E. Main St. P.O. Box 475
Watertown, WI 53094
Ph: 920-261-2218 Fax: 920-262-8724
