It is with heavy and broken hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Herbert McKinnon Ruth, on June 23, 2026, following a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Herbert was the devoted husband and partner of Gail for 54 wonderful years and the loving father of a blended family of eight children: Herbert “Jay” Ruth (Brenda) of Florida; Tony Ruth (Angel) of Florida; Jennifer Ruth (David) of Saint John, New Brunswick; Angela Davis (Craig) of Virginia; James Lane (Stacie) of Sheffield, Massachusetts; Stephen Lane (Shawna) of Wetaskiwin, Alberta; and Mechelle Lane of Fredericton, New Brunswick.

Born in Houlton, Maine, on April 28, 1941, Herbert was the son of Herbert Henry Ruth and Millicent McKinnon Ruth and the eldest of six children.

He graduated from Houlton High School and remained an active participant in class reunions throughout his life. Even as a young man, Herbert's strong work ethic was evident. He worked multiple jobs while in high school to support his passion for classic cars. His most treasured possession was a cherry-red 1969 Chevrolet Impala convertible.

That beloved Impala carried countless young couples to proms throughout the Saint John River Valley and became part of many cherished memories.

With a natural talent for mechanics and a love of working with his hands, Herbert later attended community college in Miramichi, New Brunswick, where he became one of the first licensed mechanics in the area. His passion for automobiles blended perfectly with his love of people.

A true social butterfly, Herbert never met a stranger. A simple trip to the store for milk could easily turn into a series of conversations with friends, neighbours, and newcomers alike. He always greeted people warmly, made them feel important, and, without ever needing to say the words, made his children feel deeply loved and valued.

He was a gifted storyteller who never tired of sharing memories, jokes, and life lessons. Loved and respected by all who knew him, Herbert never hesitated to lend a helping hand to someone in need, even when it meant going without himself.

Kind, generous, and deeply devoted to family, Herbert shared a special bond with his siblings throughout his life. He dearly loved his only sister, Sheila Baker (Gerry), and the two were constantly trying to outdo one another at cribbage or with a well-timed joke. He was a proud big brother to Robert, Michael, Jim, and David, remaining close to each of them throughout his life.

Herbert was admired and respected by many, but to his family he was so much more. He was a hero, a role model, and a constant source of strength. He left a lasting impression on everyone he met and will be remembered as a truly remarkable man.

Herbert was predeceased by two daughters, Eleanor Marie Ruth, who passed away at 18 months of age, and Angel Ruth Cartwright, who passed away at age 37. He was also predeceased by his parents, Herbert and Millicent Ruth; his brothers, Robert Ruth of Maryland and Michael Ruth of Maine; his brothers-in-law, Jim Branford of Wetaskiwin, Alberta, and Robert Tompkins of Jacksonville, New Brunswick; his sister-in-law, Carolyn Tompkins of Jacksonville, New Brunswick; and his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Bernice and Hughie Tompkins.

He is survived by 24 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and many cherished nieces and nephews, all of whom brought immense joy to his life.

He is also survived by sister in law Paulette Barriner(William) of Jacksonville, NB and sister in law Janet Bradford of Wetaskewin, Alberta. 

It is our hope that he watches over us now, smiling as he gathers new stories and new jokes to share when we meet again.

He will be forever in our hearts, forever in our thoughts, and forever missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, June 26, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Carleton Funeral Home, 337 Lockhart Mill Road, Jacksonville, New Brunswick. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend and share their memories of Herbert.