Erma Ruth Baxter

On August 19, 1945, in the heart of Dallas-Fort Worth Texas, a baby girl was born to Robert and Nancy Ford. They named her Erma Ruth Ford, but to everyone who knew and loved her, she was simply Ruth. As the second of three children in the Ford family, Ruth was a blessing from the very beginning.

From a young age, Ruth carried herself with grace, quiet strength, and deep compassion qualities that only grew stronger as she bacem the woman, we were so fortunate to know. Fiercely independent and determined, Ruth set out on her own journet and relocated to sunny Los Angeles, California, as a young adult. She pursued her education at Los Angeles City College and, through hard work and perseverance, proudly earned a degree in Business. In time, Ruth met the love of her life, Morris Edward Baxter. The two were married on August 8, 1969, in Los Angeles, and together they built not just a home, but a sanctuary, a place of warmth, safety, and love for family, foster children, and anyone in need.

The brightest light in their home was their daughter, Morgan Lynn Baxter, Ruth and Morgan shared an unbreakable bond, and Ruth was present for every one of her daughters milestones. She found great joy in being a stay-at-home mother, spending Sundays playing records, preparing delicious home-cooked meals, and enjoying time with friends and family. Throughout her life, Ruth wore many hats with pride. She was a dedicated property owner, a skilled and compassionate school bus driver, and a nurturing foster parent. As a hands-on landlord, Ruth visited each of her properties personally, ensuring they were safe, welcoming spaces for families. She later earned her commercial drivers license and drove buses for the Chino School District, where she was known for her care and commitment to the children she transported, treating each of them as if they were her own.

Ruth had a special gift for caring for children. Her home was a haven for those in need, and her heart always had room more. Whether related by blood or by love, everyone felt Ruth's unwavering support and boundless kindness.

Of all the roles Ruth held in her life, none brought her more joy than being a grandmother. Her grandsons, Joshua Shawon Higgins Jr. and Jordan Morris Higgins, were her heart and soul. She shared a profound and personal bond with both boys, she was there for the early mornings, school pickups, long talks, family dinners, and all the small, quiet moments that truly shaped their lives. She was more than a grandmother, she was their protector, their cheerleader, their safe place, and their guiding light. Ruth didn't just support her grandsons, she lifted them up and gave them the kind of love that becomes a foundation for life.

On May 22, 2025, Erma Ruth Baxter, 79, of Richmond, Texas, was called home. She leaves behind her beloved daughter, Morgan Lynn Baxter, her cherished grandsons, Joshua Shawon Higgins Jr. and Jordan Morris Higgins; a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends who were all touched by her light.

Ruth was preceded in death by her loving husband, Morris Edward Baxter; her mother, Nancy Ford; her father Robert Ford; her brother, James Ford; and her sister, Robbie Steen.

Ruth's legacy is one of the quiet strength, steadfast love, and a heart that never stopped giving. Her memory will live on in all those whose lives she touched, and she will be deeply, deeply missed.

A visitation for Erma will be held Saturday, June 14, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Calvary Hill Funeral Home and Cem, 21723 Aldine-Westfield Road, Humble, TX 77338, followed by a celebration of life from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM.