HILLSBOROUGH — Ruth E. (Groves) Gauthier, 88, died June 25, 2010, at Concord Hospital after a long illness. She called Hillsborough her home for more than 60 years.

For those who knew her, it was evident that she had an unstoppable vigor for life. Her enduring strength and tenacity kept us all in amazement, even in recent years of declining health. She will be remembered for her sharp wit and quick sense of humor.

She was born in Somerville, Mass., in 1921, the daughter of the late F. and Gertrude (Skelton) Groves. She was predeceased by her husband, Arthur Gauthier, who died in 1989.

Early in her career, Ruth worked at the Hillsboro Messenger Newspaper as the first female linotype operator in the state when the paper was under ownership of John VanHazinga. Later she worked as payroll clerk for Supervisory Union 24, then continued on to Hawthorne College/Hawthorne Airport for 10 years. Before retiring, she worked for the town of Hillsborough as payroll clerk. Additionally, she served for many years as supervisor of the checklist for the town of Hillsborough.

Ruth was a devoted member of the American Legion Auxiliary for 60 years as well as Woman of the Moose Chapter 967 for 50 years. She received her College of Regents degree with Woman of the Moose in June 1991. She was a member of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution and Porta-Henocon-Asteria No. 14 Order of Eastern Star.

She was survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Beverly and Mark Monkton, of Hancock; her granddaughter and grandson-in-law, Cherie and Anthony Balakier of York, Maine; a granddaughter, Haley Monkton of Hancock; two great-grandchildren, Ellie and Delia.

Graveside services will be held July 10 at 10 a.m. in Maple Avenue Cemetery, Hillsborough. The Rev. Andrew MacLeod will officiate.

A gathering for friends and family will follow at the Moose Lodge on School Street in Hillsborough.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to the Hillsborough Fire Association P.O. Box 7, Hillsborough 03244.

The Holt-Woodbury Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Hillsborough is in charge of arrangements. For more information, visit www.holt-woodburyfh.com.