Ruth Noemi Cartagenanutter

Ruth Cartagenanutter, born on March 17, 1955, in Cayey, Puerto Rico, began her journey with humble roots before moving to El Paso, Texas, where she built the foundation for an extraordinary life. In 1983, she married the love of her life, Steven Allen Nutter, and together they shared more than four decades of faith, family, and service until his passing in 2025.

After earning her college degree, Ruth answered the call to serve her country by joining the United States Army. During her distinguished 16-year military career, she rose to the rank of Major in the Military Police Corps and received numerous awards and honors, including the National Defense Service Medal. A graduate of Airborne School, Ruth was recognized for her leadership during REFORGER '86, planning physical security for NASA's Space Shuttle program at Fort Bliss, Texas, and serving as a U.S. Army escort officer for two returning prisoners of war following Operation Desert Storm. Her career reflected exceptional leadership, integrity, and unwavering dedication to others.

Following her military retirement, Ruth relocated with her family to Grove, Oklahoma, where she found a second calling as a Spanish teacher at Jay High School. She loved developing young minds, mentoring students, supporting school clubs and organizations, and volunteering with the St. Elizabeth Youth Program. Her passion for education and genuine care for others left a lasting impact on countless students and families.

A devoted member of St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, Ruth's faith guided every aspect of her life. During an eight-year battle with multiple myeloma, she displayed extraordinary courage and resilience. Even after losing her sight, she remained optimistic and inspiring, far outliving her doctors' expectations. Ruth enjoyed listening to audiobooks, following current events, playing Bingo, and, above all, spending time with her family.

Ruth is survived by her daughters, Cynthia Skinner (Jason Skinner) and Nicole Boggs Lewis (Caleb Lewis); and six cherished grandchildren: John Boggs, Deacon Boggs, Sarah Boggs, Reilly Lewis, Maddox Skinner, and Hayes Skinner, as well as one great-grandchild, Ayva Bivins. She is also survived by several beloved brothers and sisters, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Steven Allen Nutter.

A memorial service celebrating Ruth's life will be held at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Grove, Oklahoma, on July 24 at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in her memory.