Ruth E. Gilbert, 100, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2026, at Otterbein Senior Living formerly Ohio Living Lake Vista in Cortland, Ohio surrounded by the love of her family.

Born September 1, 1925, in Warren, Ohio, Ruth was the daughter of Ernest Chasser Sr. and Pearl Nydegger Chasser. 

She graduated from Warren G. Harding High School in 1943. She lived a long and meaningful life centered around her family and was known for her quiet strength, kind heart, and the deep love she shared with those closest to her. She was a friend to everyone she met and had a gentle way of making others feel welcomed and cared for. Ruth retired from General Motors Lordstown, where she worked from 1968-1985 as a Human Resource specialist. 

She was an accomplished seamstress, and found great joy in sewing, crafting and painting. 

On May 23, 1948, Ruth married the love of her life, Edward Gilbert, at the First United Church of Christ, Warren, OH. where they first met and sang together in the choir. They shared a devoted marriage of 60 years until Edward’s passing in 2008.

Ruth is survived by her four daughters: Sally (Robert) Spencer and Karen (James) Wrightsman, both of Cortland, Ohio; Gayle (Wayne) Vidovich of North Ridgeville, Ohio; and Nancy (Steve) Fischer of Broomfield, Colorado. She also leaves behind five cherished grandchildren: Chad (Kathryn) Vidovich, Melanie (Chris) Hunter, Jamie Wrightsman, Rebecca Wrightsman (fiancé Ryan Wilson), and Daniel (Tina) Fischer, all of whom she loved very much.

She is further survived by her beloved great-grandchildren: Dahlia, Dane, and Nadia Vidovich; and Brooks, Maddox, and Ashton Hunter.

Ruth’s greatest joy came from time spent with her family and her legacy of love and devotion will live on through them. She was strong in her faith and held a deep belief in life everlasting, which guided her throughout her life.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Edward Gilbert and her brother, Ernest Chasser Jr.

She was loved by her friends and staff where she was often referred to as the mayor and ambassador of Lake Vista. Her family is deeply grateful for the loving care she received by the staff and Ohio Living Hospice team. Ruth developed a long lasting friendship with each of them. 

Private burial was held at Crown Hill Cemetery on May 20, 2026. Celebration of Life will be held on June 8th, 2026 at Bazetta Christian Church, Friends will be received from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM and service to follow.

Ruth will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved her. Her love, like the songs she once sang, will echo in the hearts of her family for generations to come.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Ohio Living Hospice, 6715 Tippecanoe Road, Canfield, OH 44406.

Professional arrangements are being handled by the Peter Rossi and Son Memorial Chapel.