Ruth H. Bodge

Ruth H. Bodge (Baker), loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at the age of 103. She departed this life on June 21, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and faith for all those who were blessed to know her.

Born in Somerville, Massachusetts to Walter Baker and Ella Shoenheiter Baker, Ruth grew up in Medford, where her deep-rooted faith began from an early age. As a child, Ruth enjoyed playing music with her family, spending time outdoors and participating in many church activities. Ruth’s involvement in the church led her to meet her future husband and love of her life, Reverend Dr. James “Everett” Bodge. After they married in 1943, Ruth and Everett began a life together serving their congregations in several communities, including Andover, Brookline, Hopkinton and Melrose Massachusetts, as well as Columbus, Ohio, Yonkers, New York, and Nantucket, Massachusetts. Their faithful leadership together spanned over 40 years. As the wife of a minister, Ruth played a pivotal role in the communities they served. Her warm spirit and compassionate nature made her a beloved figure among congregants and community members alike. She was known for her kind heart, always willing to lend a listening ear and offer words of comfort and encouragement to those in need. Her warmth, generosity, and sense of humor were readily shared right up until her passing. 

Ruth and Everett raised three sons together, instilling in them the same values of faith, integrity, and service that defined their own lives. Her family and friends cherished her deeply, finding in her a source of wisdom, love, and unwavering support. Loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, she leaves a legacy of faith, compassion, and service to God. These qualities will continue to live on through her family and friends, as well as all those she touched throughout her extraordinary life. She will be deeply missed.

In addition to her parents, Ruth was predeceased by her sister, Florence Baker, her husband, Reverend Dr. James Bodge Jr., son, David Bodge and son, James Bodge. Ruth is survived by her son, Lawrence Bodge, grandchildren, Christine Bodge, Jennifer Dunleavy (Kevin), Matthew Bodge, and great granddaughter, Norah Dunleavy. 

Ruth's life was a testament to family, faith, love, and service—a legacy that will continue to inspire and uplift those who were fortunate enough to know her. May she rest in eternal peace, reunited with her beloved husband and in the presence of her Lord whom she served so faithfully.

A celebration of Ruth’s life is planned for 11AM on August 3, 2024, at Brookside Congregational Church in Manchester, NH. 

To view Ruth's online tribute, send condolences to her family, or for more information, please visit Cremation Society of NH at https://csnh.com/obituaries/.