Thelma Ruth Ross

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, James Ashley Chapman and Bessie May Chapman; her husbands, Eldridge Pate and Samuel Ross; her sons, Ronald Pate and Mickey Pate; and her siblings, Jack, Billie, Doris, Algere, and Sam.

She is survived by her daughter-in-law, Pamela Pate; her grandchildren, Matthew Pate (Galina) and Rachel Case (Parker); her step-grandchildren, Natalie Hinkley (Aaron) and Jeffrey Martinez (Jessica); and her great-grandchildren, Isla, Pippa, and George Pate. She is also survived by her siblings, Maxine Willis (Jim), Kenneth Chapman, Alice Mills, and Archie Chapman (Betty), along with numerous nieces and nephews whom she loved very much.

Ruth was one of ten siblings. For many years, she and her extended family gathered in Conroe for their annual family reunion. It was a cherished tradition filled with visiting, laughter, and sharing a potluck lunch—an event she always looked forward to.

A devoted wife and mother, Ruth lovingly cared for anyone in need. She was a proud grandmother and played a very special role in her grandchildren’s lives as they were growing up.

Ruth worked as a bookkeeper at Stewart & Stevenson, where she handled numerous office duties and formed many lasting friendships. She retired after 12 years of service in 1997. It was also at Stewart & Stevenson that she met her late husband, Samuel Ross. They were married on January 27, 1993.

She was an active member of Abundant Waters Fellowship Church, where her church family was very dear to her. Ruth formed many meaningful friendships there, and her faith in God sustained her throughout her life.

Ruth lived a full and adventurous life. In her younger years, she traveled throughout Europe with her husband and sons. Later, she enjoyed bus trips across the United States with her senior citizen group, always returning with wonderful stories to share. She served as President of her local AARP group at the Bear Creek Community Center, planning many of the day trips herself and building lifelong friendships along the way.

Ruth will be greatly missed and forever remembered. Heaven has gained a beautiful soul.

Visitation will be held at Forest Park Westheimer Funeral Home, 12800 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77077, US, on March 4, 2026, at 9:00 am, followed by the Funeral at 10:00 am and the Committal at 11:00 am.

Pallbearers will be Matthew Pate, Jeff Martinez, Randy Hyde, Randy Chapman, James Leonard, and Bo Dice.