Ruth E. Bolles, a longtime Oak Bluffs resident, died Jan. 3.

Ruth and her surviving sister Olive Bishop Hill pursued careers in education and nursing, attending Harlem Hospital together.

Ruth continued her education attending New York University and Queens College, obtaining master’s degrees in public health and administration. She went on professionally to become a nursing administrator at Harlem Hospital, then to a teaching career at Washington Irving High School in lower Manhattan. Ruth chose an early retirement from the school system to be a stay-at-home mother to daughter Robin Ruth.

Ruth returned as a full-time Island resident after Robin graduated from high school. Ruth embraced her Island life with verve and joy. Summers spent at the beach, sharing her favorite fishing spots with friends, picking raspberries in her yard, and volunteering with the hospital and community greenhouse created a full Island life.

She returned to her home state of Virginia in 2002, residing in an assisted living residence until her passing from late stage Alzheimer’s at age 87.

Ruth was a dedicated health practitioner and teacher, a cherished friend, beloved sister, and a loving and respected mother. A memorial service will be held in Ruth’s honor this summer. For details, get in touch with Robin R. Bolles at RRB17@aol.com.