Ruth E. Taft DeNardis, 88, of North Haven, passed away peacefully on Oct. 22 at Yale New Haven Hospital/St. Raphael’s campus. She was the beloved wife of 61 years to Richard DeNardis. She is also survived by her daughter Dawn DeNardis. Ruth was born in New Haven on Aug. 19, 1934, and was the daughter of the late Clarence and Doris Yeomans Taft.

A 1952 graduate of Wilbur Cross High School, Ruth earned her bachelor’s degree from Southern Connecticut State University in 1956, and later commuted to Boston College where she earned her master’s degree. She had worked in special education and was a vision specialist for the New Haven School System for many years.

Ruth enjoyed traveling, spending time with her sister-in-law Gail DeNardis, nature, and bird watching. She was a member of the Retired Teachers Organization. She was beloved by her many nieces and nephews and will be missed by all. Ruth was predeceased by her brother Larry Taft.

Visiting hours were on Oct. 27 at the Havens Family North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue. A Mass of Christian burial followed in St. Elizabeth of the Trinity Parish at St. Therese Church, 555 Middletown Avenue, North Haven. Interment will follow in All Saints Cemetery, North Haven. www.northhavenfuneral.com.