Ruth M. (McNeil) Ready

WINCHENDON - Ruth M. (McNeil) Ready, 89, of 547 Central Street, Winchendon, died peacefully Tuesday afternoon, March 2nd in Wachusett Manor Nursing Home, Gardner. She was born in Worcester on May 28,1920, the daughter of the late William O. and M. Sarah (Trottier) McNeil and had lived in Winchendon for most of her life. Ruth had worked as a clerk in the Assessor's Office for the Town of Winchendon and then served three terms as Collector of Taxes. She served for many years on the Board of Registrars for the town and as its chairwoman. She was also a poll worker for over 40 years. An active member of the Town Democratic Committee, she attended several State Democratic conventions. Ruth was a member of the Winchendon Woman's Club, Winchendon Historical Society and the Eugene M. Connor Post 193 American Legion Auxiliary. Ruth was a 1938 graduate of Murdock High School, where she was a member of its basketball team. She was a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church. She enjoyed quilting and presiding over family holiday dinners. Ruth also enjoyed York Beach and trips to Maine. Her greatest enjoyment came from spending time with her family. Her husband of 45 years, John H. Ready Jr., died in 1987. She leaves three sons, John E. "Jack" Ready and his wife Jacqueline Ellis of Winchendon, Martin W. Ready and his wife Vicky of Greenland, NH and Michael B. Ready and his wife Diane of Mansfield; ten grandchildren, Jasmine, Cory, Amanda, Dorian, Emerson, Travis, Kali, Christopher, Julia and Tennettey; four great grandchildren, Dustin, Jack, Deegan and Sophia and several nephews and nieces. Three brothers, Edward McNeil, James McNeil and Bernard McNeil, predeceased her. Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 6th from Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central Street, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 12 Noon in Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 52 Spruce Street. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery. Calling hours in the funeral home are Friday, March 5th from 6 to 8 P.M. Memorial donations may be made to Winchendon EMT Ambulance Fund, PO Box 125, Winchendon, MA. 01475. www.stone-ladeau.com