Ruth Lewis Chilton

Ruth Lewis Chilton, age 94, passed away on December 1, 2016.

Born in Bethel, Ohio, Ruth was the oldest of five children of Thurman and Jessie Lewis. After the early death of her father, Ruth went to work at age 15 to help support her mother and siblings. Later, she trained and worked in the medical field, ultimately moving to Brownsville in 1950 to work in the office of Dr. Harry Miller. Ruth found Brownsville to be a big change from Ohio, but she began to adjust and enjoy her new Texas home. She went to the beach, discovered Mexican food, and took Spanish lessons.

Ruth became active in the First Methodist Church, singing in the choir and making friends. These friends told her about a young fellow, Carl Chilton, who was also active in the church. They then invited Ruth and Carl to join them for an evening in September, 1950. Ruth later told Carl she liked his looks when she first saw him arriving at the house where they met. They enjoyed their evening together, and soon were seeing each other regularly. They were married in June, 1951.

In 1952, Ruth became a full time wife and mother, providing loving care for her home and family. Their marriage of 65 years produced three daughters--Karen, Carla Ann, and Clarice.

Ruth and Carl enjoyed watching their family grow, now including four generations, with 14 members.

Ruth is survived by her husband, Carl Chilton, daughters Karen Schaefer and Clarice Elliott; sons-in-law Edward Schaefer, Steve Elliott and Don Hannah; granddaughters Catherine Schaefer, Anna Marie Schaefer, Christine Hannah, Alyssa Hannah, and Kaitlin Elliott; grandson-in-law Philip Scoles, great-grandson Shea Lewis Scoles, and two brothers Calvin Lewis and Charles Lewis. Her daughter Carla Hannah, her parents, her brother Howard, and sister Naomi preceded her in death.

A memorial service celebrating Ruth's life will be held at 3 p.m. on Monday, December 12, 2016, at the First United Methodist Church in Brownsville.

The family expresses appreciation for the many Brownsville friends who have provided support and love to Ruth. A special thanks is also due to her caregivers, Victoria Martinez and Martha Ingle, and for the 30 years of care and friendship of Dr. Juan Martinez.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to the First United Methodist Church, 1225 Boca Chica Blvd, Brownsville, Texas 78520.

Service

Memorial Contributions