Ruth E. Miller, a cherished figure in her community, passed away peacefully at the age of 98 on August 26, 2025, at Manatawny Manor in Pottstown, Pennsylvania. Known for her deep love of music and devotion to her family, Ruth leaves behind a legacy marked by compassion and creativity.
Born on November 3, 1926, in Reading, Pennsylvania, Ruth was the daughter of LeRoy and Rhoda (Embody) Miller. She graduated from Boyertown High School in 1944 and pursued her passion for music at West Chester University. Following her education, she began her career as an administrative assistant at Firestone Tire and Rubber Company, where she met her future husband, Ralph “Lefty” S. Miller. The couple enjoyed a loving marriage that lasted 61 years until Ralph’s passing on July 18, 2013.
Ruth’s love for music was a defining aspect of her life. She played the violin with the Pottstown Symphony and participated in the Saugerties Music Camp, nurturing young musicians. Her gentle spirit and caring nature were evident in all her interactions, particularly as she embraced her roles as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.
She is survived by her daughters, Rebecca High of Annapolis, Maryland, and Melissa Zipay of New Berlinville, Pennsylvania. Ruth also leaves behind her grandchildren, Nathan Zipay and Kacie Widmann, and her great-grandchildren, Finley and Hazie. The family is eagerly anticipating the arrival of twins, soon to be welcomed by Nathan and his wife, Emily.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Ruth’s life during a visitation on September 2, 2025, from 10:30 to 11:00 a.m. at Houck & Gofus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., located at 955 N. Charlotte St., Pottstown, PA 19464. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m., with interment at Mount Zion Cemetery, 225 E. Schuylkill Rd., Pottstown, PA 19465.
In honor of Ruth’s profound love for dogs, the family requests that donations be made in her memory to 1 Love 4 Animals. Ruth E. Miller’s legacy will continue through the lives she touched and the music she cherished.
