VASSALBORO – Ruth Ellen Cooper Brackett, 90, of Vassalboro, passed away at home on March 10, 2025, after a period of declining health.

Ruth was born Jan. 19, 1935, in Waterville, to George and Jestel Cooper.

Ruth worked for many years as a medical secretary to pediatrician Dr Z Matthews, and retired from work while employed in the business office at Seton Hospital (MGMC) in Waterville.

During her retirement Ruth took up quilting, an art she became remarkably skilled in. She was well known in the quilting community, and enjoyed sharing her expertise with others over coffee and laughter. The kitchen table was a frequent location for a work in progress whenever she was not feeding friends and family delicious baked goods. Her legacy lives on through the amazing and lovely quilts she so painstakingly designed.

She also could often be found volunteering with the Vassalboro Historical Society or cooking for the Masonic Lodge potluck suppers. Ruth also enjoyed camping, gardening and the lovely home and surrounding nature she shared with her husband Roy.

Ruth is survived by her son, Don Brackett; and grandsons Rurik and Ian Brackett.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Roy in 2022; and her sister, Nancy Cooper.

According to her wishes, there will be no funeral, instead, in her memory, Ruth’s family encourages relatives and friends to enjoy a walk in the woods or a visit to the seashore with someone they love.

The Brackett family would like to thank Sandra Bouchey for the wonderful care she provided to Ruth during her last months of life.