Ruth Esther Shumate

Ruth Esther Shumate, a woman of profound faith and boundless generosity, passed away peacefully in Phoenix, Arizona. Born on Christmas Day in 1939 in Taos, New Mexico, Ruth’s life was a gift to everyone who knew her. After spending time in Los Angeles, she moved to Phoenix in 1977, which remained her home for the rest of her days.

Widowed in 1980, Ruth’s strength was forged in the fire of independence. She raised her four children on her own with selfless devotion that defined her character. There were many times Ruth went without so that her children could have everything they needed. Her care didn't stop with her own children; she was a pillar of support in raising several of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren as well.

She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Annette, in 2024. Left to cherish her memory are her children: Valerie, Manuel, and Pearl. Her legacy continues through her seven grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren, with another blessing on the way.

A true believer in the Gospel of Jesus, Ruth lived with a "pure and honest" heart. Her home was a sanctuary where the door was always open to those in need. Despite her many responsibilities, Ruth was famously "fun to be around." She possessed a sharp wit—often joked about by her children, who claimed she loved her son-in-law even more than them.

In her later years, Ruth found joy in the quiet corners of life. She was an avid reader who often had multiple books going on at once and was a loyal fan of the Food Network. Her home was filled with her cherished elephant collection and the intricate pieces of her latest jigsaw puzzles. Most of all, she treasured the time spent with her great-great-grandson, who brought a special spark to her final years.

Ruth Esther Shumate was a woman of grit, grace, and an enduring love that will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

A visitation will be held on January 9, 2026, at 10:00 am at Greenwood Memory Lawn Mortuary, Chapel, located at 719 North 27th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85009. The funeral service will follow at the same location at 11:00 am. A graveside service will take place at 12:00 pm at Greenwood Memory Lawn Cemetery, located at 2300 West Van Buren, Phoenix, AZ 85009.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Susan G. Komen, 13770 Noel Road, Suite 801889, Dallas, Texas 75380. Donations can also be made online at www.komen.org