Ruth Cates-Hardy Obituary (1933 - 2025)

Ruth L. Cates-Hardy January 8th, 1933 – September 7th, 2025. Born to Charles T. Bishop and Elizabeth K. (Francis) Bishop. Brothers: Charles, Richard, and Dennis Bishop. Sisters: Angela and Dody. At 92 years young, the rock of our family left this earth and is now in heaven, in Jesus' arms. This was not easy, for she had to leave us behind, but we assured her we would stay strong and carry her great love on, in the family she created so long ago. She was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. She was simply the greatest to her family. Ruth was predeceased by her husband, Chandler M. Cates, of 40 years, with whom she had six children: Larry, Gary, Richard, Pamela, John, and Judy. She is also predeceased by three of her children: Gary Cates, Richard Cates, and Pamela Atwood. Grandchildren: Jon Atwood, great-grandchildren: Alec, Catherine, & Levi Cates. brothers: Charles Bishop and Richard Bishop. She remarried the late Charles Hardy and spent 18 beautiful years with him, growing her family once again with her stepchildren and grandchildren of the Hardy family, before his passing. Later in her 92 years, she was reunited with her first childhood friend, Bill Libby. She later became his caregiver until his passing. For the last 13 of the 14 years of her life, she found great companionship and love with her dear friend, the late Arthur Gagne, and his family. Our mother carried so much love in her heart and shared it throughout her life, from the very early beginnings, which is why, to this day, her love has grown so big for so many. She is survived by her children: Larry L. Cates, John C. Cates and partner Brenda Madden, Judy E. Smith and husband Craig L. Smith, and son-in-law Lindy Atwood. Sister: Dody Bridges and husband Linwood, Angela Quiron, brother: Dennis Bishop and wife Nancy. A special friend and sister-in-law: Julia Bishop. Many loved nieces and nephews. Please join us to hear more about this extraordinary woman on Saturday, October 4th, at 1 pm at the Church of Faith, 798 Canaan Rd, Skowhegan, ME 04976. In memory of her strong faith, please send donations to the Church of Faith.