Ruth Gillett

Ruth Gillett, age 104, a resident of Portland, passed away on Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025, at IU Health Jay Hospital in Portland.  

Ruth was born April 1, 1920, in Portland, Indiana, the daughter of Albert and Birdie (Mangus) Degler. She graduated from Portland High School and married Harold Gillett on Feb. 16, 1940.  They were married 68 years and he preceded her in death in 2008.  

Ruth helped Harold with his contracting business in Wayne Township and was a seamstress. She was a member of Asbury United Methodist Church and an original member of the Jay County Hospital Auxiliary.  

Survivors include her children, Linda Borgerding of Springhill, Tennessee, Jim Gillett (wife: Pam) of Greenfield, Indiana, and Vickie Arford of Portland, Indiana; five  grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.  

Visitation will be held on Monday from 1 to 2 p.m. at Williamson-Spencer and Penrod Funeral Home in Portland. Funeral services will follow at 2 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at IOOF Twin Hill Cemetery in Pennville. 

Memorials may be directed towards Asbury United Methodist Church in Portland.