Frances Ruth Cramer Smallwood of Gloucester, VA, born 11/4/1947 in Harlingen Texas, moved to her heavenly home on Sunday May 17, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer.
Ruth is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, John Smallwood; her son Nathan Smallwood (Toni Chance) of Pflugerville, TX; her daughter, Deanna Smallwood Montanio of Gloucester, VA; grandchildren, Cody Smallwood (Saije), Mia Montanio, Samantha Smallwood, and Mylee Montanio; greatgrandson, Sebastian; sister Susan Cramer Fricke; brother Lee Cramer; numerous brothers in-law and sisters in-law, cousins, nieces, nephews and a host of family and friends.  She was predeceased by her parents Allene and Lee Cramer, and her sisters Kay Whatley and Mary Lee Cramer.
Ruth dedicated her professional life to the education field, lovingly taught school and served in administration in Texas, Colorado and Georgia.  Ruth loved to travel, traveling the world by age 23 and traveling the U.S. throughout her life to visit family and friends, fish, attend concerts and whatever travel opportunity presented itself.  Ruth knew no strangers and was beloved by friends and colleagues far and wide.
A memorial service will be held at Bellamy United Methodist Church, 4870 Chestnut Fork Rd, Gloucester, Va on Thursday 05/21/2026.  Visitation 11 a.m. to service start at 12 Noon.  Internment will follow at the church cemetery, with refreshments after at the church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bellamy United Methodist Church (where Ruth volunteered charity work), or to Samaritans Purse, or Feed the Children.
Services by Andrews Funeral Home at andrewsfuneralservices.com