Long-standing and devoted member, Ruth Haynes, died on Sunday evening, January 10th. Ruth lived most her life in Bergen County. Having joined our Society in the 1970s, she became an active and very gregarious member of our community. Ruth was a continuous presence at Sunday platforms and supported the Society through her engaged participation in our twice-annual Membership Meetings. Ruth served as our board secretary years ago and was often seen at our social affairs.
Ruth maintained a life-affirming and upbeat disposition throughout a life that confronted her with significant hardships. She had lost a son and struggled with cancer and heart ailments. Through it all, Ruth was without complaint and seemed to be always upbeat. Her positive outlook served as an inspiration to all of us. Ruth had been married three times. Her last husband, Howard Haynes, who served as our membership chair, died several years ago. For the last ten years she was the devoted companion and partner of Roland Dumont, and we extend our condolences to Roland at this difficult time.
Ruth had worked in earlier years for JC Penney. She played the piano and derived joy from art and from gardening, about which she was very knowledgeable. Beyond her many friends in our community, Ruth leaves a son, Mark, and several grandchildren. Ruth Haynes was 85 years old. A memorial service will be held for Ruth at the Society in the near future.
– Joseph Chuman
Ruth was always a class act. It was 2014, and I was a newbie president. Ruth took the time to call and kindly say, “You have such presence up there,” So characteristic of her to reach out and offer a compliment. The truth is that it was Ruth who lit up the meetinghouse with Her presence, who paid close attention, who understood how to be a welcome part of the team. We are all the better for having had Ruth Haynes as an engaged member of our community..