Back to Obituaries Phillips-Riley Funeral Home | Montgomery, AL

Ruth Shope

Passed 06/19/2025

Obituary For Ruth Shope

With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Ruth Marie Shope, a beloved grandmother, mother, sister, and friend, who left this world on June 19th, 2025 surrounded by love. She was 63 years old.

A lifelong advocate for compassion, creativity, and equality, Ruth dedicated her life to caring—for people, for animals, for the planet, and for all living things. Her boundless empathy was the guiding light in her career in the mental health field, where she offered strength and healing to countless individuals.

Ruth had a rare and beautiful soul, deeply attuned to the wonders of the natural world. She nurtured gardens that seemed to bloom just for her and always paused to marvel at butterflies flitting past—a symbol of her own gentle transformation through life. She had an abiding love for animals and never turned away a creature in need. Her compassion extended beyond her backyard, as she championed environmental preservation and stood firmly for equality and justice for all.

A creative soul in every sense, Ruth poured her heart into crafts, creating and repurposing. She was a master of crochet and could turn a simple skein of yarn into something magical. Whether building something from scratch, painting, or crafting thoughtful handmade gifts or desserts, her creativity knew no bounds—and neither did her generosity in sharing it.

Her strength was mighty. She was the kind of woman who listened without judgment, and who loved without limits. Her family—her proudest joy—will remember her for the warmth of her hugs, the wisdom in her words, the creativity of her ideas and the unconditional love she gave so freely.

She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, creativity, and courage. She is survived by her daughter April (Ben) Bacon, her son Ryan (Deidre) Shope; her beloved grandchildren Amirah, Hudson & Abby Bacon, together with Pierce, Sylvia & Brenda Shope. She is also survived by her sister, Christy Shope. Her pet companions Khloee and Rocky will be taken care of by her family members who will continue to honor her life by carrying her spirit in their hearts and actions.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to any of the below charities in honor of Ruth’s lifelong dedication to protecting and helping all living things.

  • World Central Kitchen
  • Good360
  • Friends of Animals.org
  • Unbound
  • Alleycat.org
  • Carnegie Endowment for International Peace

May her memory be a blessing, and may we all strive to love everyone the way she did—with open arms and an open heart.


Condolences & Tributes

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To me, she will always be Ruthie---my little cousin who came into the world when I was 8 years old. I watched her grow from infancy to adulthood, become a mom and finally, a loving grandmother. She left life as she lived it, with courage, grace, and dignity. Rest in peace, dear cousin.

Jeff Smith

Gone way too soon sweetie!, last condolences we're from me, kandi

Oh Ruth you are really gone too soon! I love you and will always carry part of you in my heart! I ha

I loved her very much. I'll make that call or visit to my the people I love in your honor Ruth. I regret I didn't spend time with you precious woman. I think of the wonderful examples you've shown me. Thank you my friend❤️‍🩹

Oh Ruth you are really gone too soon! I love you and will always carry part of you in my heart! I ha

💔 My Sister was ONE IN A MILLION and ONE OF A KIND! My life will never be the same, but it was made so much richer by having her in it! I am so BLESSED and THANKFUL I was able to spend the last couple of months with her and care for her, but it was cut short all to soon! I ❤️LOVE❤️ YOU MY BEAUTIFUL SISTER (INSIDE and OUT) and WILL CONTINUE TO CARRY YOU IN MY HEART ALWAYS and FOREVER! Love your Baby Sis, Christy😘

Christolyn Shope

Ruthie had an unimaginable spirit and character. One would never guess that 4' 6" frame held such strength until they watched her in action. Such a bright light in the world gone way too soon; comfort is taken in the fact that her mind and body no longer suffer. Rest in Eternal Peace forever. We love you much. Beverly & Stephen

The Greens

Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

Phillips-Riley Funeral Home | Montgomery, AL

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