Ruth Slater

Ruth Slater passed away on October 8, 2024 at the age of 102. She was born on October 10, 1921. She died just 2 days shy of her 103rd birthday. She was born in Boston and spent most of her life in the suburbs north of Boston. She resided in Springdale, Utah, just outside of Zion National Park, for the past 6 years with her daughters Ellen and Barbara and her son-in-law Bill.

Ruth founded Harvest Catering Company at 51 years old, breaking ground as a female business owner and operator from 1972 to 1990. She brought joy to countless couples on their wedding day and to families for other events as well. Ruth became a legend to the many young people who she employed and mentored. In her later years, she devoted much time to caring for her grandchildren and hosting dinner parties, making sure everyone left the table completely satisfied.

Ruth was known for her tenacity and great spirit. Growing up in the Jewish neighborhood of Roxbury, she took on work to support her family during the Great Depression. She will be remembered for her kindness and good humor. Active until the end, Ruth could be found winning rummy-o games and working on puzzles with a cat by her side.

She is survived by her daughters Ellen McKenna, Joan Slater, Barbara Ellard, son-in-law Bill Ellard, and her loving grandchildren Zoe Wyner, Ben Wyner, Leah Benoit and her husband Matt Benoit, Clay McKenna and his wife Marree Budris, and her great grandchild Lila Benoit.

The funeral will be held Sunday, October 13, 2024 at the Independent Pride of Boston Cemetery, 776 Baker Street, West Roxbury, MA, at 10:00am. Shiva (memorial open house) will be held at the home of Tom and Erin Barry, from 2:00pm to 6:00pm following the service.

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation to Project Street Vet, a non-profit organization to help the homeless with their pet’s needs. www.projectstreetvet.org