Ruth Sheppard

PLANO, Texas -- Ruth Hatcher Sheppard, devoted and loving wife, mother and sister, passed suddenly on Friday, Sept. 7, 2012, in Plano.

Born Oct. 23, 1922, to the late George W. and Topsy H. Whitaker, she graduated from Stephens College in Columbia, Mo., and Southeast Missouri State University, formerly Teachers College, in Cape Girardeau, Mo. She devoted her professional life to teaching, spending most of her career as a fifth grade teacher at Wind Point Elementary School in Racine, Wis., where she was recognized numerous times for her skills in working with children, designing curriculum and mentoring other professionals.

Ruth was a long-standing member of the Order of the Eastern Star's Sikeston, Mo., Chapter, as well as numerous professional organizations. She was a life-long member of the United Methodist Church.

Her family remembers her many kindnesses, her love of gardening and roses, appreciation of the arts, great cooking skills, spirited card-playing and constant support of her family's numerous projects and endeavors and miss her knowing she rests in peace with our Heavenly Father. The world is truly a more beautiful place for Ruth having been here.

She is survived by Homer T. Sheppard, her steadfast lover, partner, friend and husband for 69 years: their romance grew from small town basketball rivalries in southeast Missouri, where her devoted sister, Georgia Allen, still resides.

She is also survived by: two beloved daughters and their families, Simona Frank and her husband, Thomas, of Richardson and Sheri Sheppard and her husband, Edward Carryer, of Palo Alto, Calif.; three grandchildren, Jeffrey Frank and his wife, Shelly, Suzanne Hoff and her husband, Brian, and Portia Carryer; and four great-grandchildren, Logan Frank, Austin Frank, Sophia Hoff and Josie Hoff.

A private memorial service will be held.

The Sparkman Funeral Home of Richardson is in charge of arrangements.

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