It is with “happy tears,” as she would have wanted, that her immediate family announces the peaceful passing of Ruth Irene (Miller) Sheetz, 75, at her home in Myerstown on July 7, 2024. After battling cancer of various types for 35 years, Ruth came to believe that her ultimate victory would mean going where it could never follow. While her family celebrates her freedom and well-deserved rest, they are incredibly grateful for all of the wonderful years she stayed strong to guide her husband and four children, cuddle six grandchildren, and make joyful memories with everyone.
Born at home in Shoemakersville on March 9, 1949, Ruth was the second daughter of George and Kathryn (Long) Miller.
She graduated from Schuylkill Valley High School in 1967 and married her high school sweetheart, Gary W. Sheetz, in 1971. Ruth and Gary enjoyed 53 years of marriage together, moving from Berks County to Dauphin County and eventually to Lebanon County. She retired from the Lebanon County Conservation District, where her primary responsibility was bookkeeping, the type of work she truly enjoyed.
Ruth is survived by her loving husband, Gary, and their four children, Stephanie (Sheetz) Diehl, of Arlington, VA, along with husband, David, and children, Paul and Claire; Stephen Sheetz, of Lititz, along with Tiffany Tomaszewski; Kristen (Sheetz) Christman, of Phoenix, AZ, along with husband, Karl, and children, Emma and Brooke; and Lori (Sheetz) Redman, of Ashburn, VA, along with husband, Stephen, and children, Henry and Eleanor.
She is preceded in heaven by her parents and an older sister, Betty Jane (Miller) Kauffman.
Those who knew Ruth would agree that her gift was to meet people where they were, with an open heart, a patient ear, and a playful sense of humor. With her selfless generosity, humility, and pragmatic, hard-working spirit, she embodied the best qualities of her Pennsylvania Dutch heritage.
Ruth enjoyed cats, challenging puzzles, ice-cold watermelon, cruises, cheering for the Phillies, and the occasional entertaining trip to a casino. She was happiest outdoors in the sunlight, surrounded by the natural beauty and brilliant colors of the Earth. She was a beloved wife, mother, and friend and will be immensely missed.
“This is the day that the Lord has made,” she often said as she bravely faced her final days, surrounded by those she loved most. “Let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
Her immediate family is honoring her wish for a small celebration of life for close family and friends only. At her request, in lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the American Cancer Society to give other families like hers the chance for many more wonderful years together.
