Ruth Jane Francis (Shroyer), born December 10, 1936, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Elizabeth French Shroyer and Walter Dean Shroyer, passed away on September 17, 2023, after a brief illness. Ruth is lovingly remembered by her son David Munger (Renee), daughter Leeane, grandchildren Delaney Blackburn, Chris Munger, and Sarah Munger, and great-grandchildren Carter Wolf, Brindle Wolf, and Evelyn Bellinger. She is preceded in death by her cherished grandson, Michael. A passionate artist, Ruth discovered her love for painting during her formative years, spending countless hours creating art at her mother’s kitchen table. These moments, combined with travels through various western states with her parents, instilled in her a profound appreciation for mountains and deserts. A graduate of Westport High School, Kansas City, in 1954, Ruth’s artistic talents were further nurtured while working at Hallmark Greeting Cards where she trained with Hallmark instructors. Ruth additionally further developed her talent studying at the Kansas City Art Institute. Marriage and motherhood brought Ruth to Texas and New Mexico. While in Albuquerque, Ruth pursued degrees in Resource Management studying at the College of Santa Fe and the Southwestern College in Santa Fe. A dedicated professional, Ruth spent 15 years with the Public Service Company of New Mexico and 12 years at Honeywell, both as a Materials Administrator. Retiring in 2002, Ruth relocated to Grapevine, Texas, where she reignited her passion for painting. The landscapes of Texas, differing vastly from New Mexico, presented Ruth with new subjects that she and her patrons thoroughly cherished. From her early days in New Mexico immersed in native culture to her time in Texas, Ruth continually sought inspiration, pushing her artistry to remarkable heights. “I love art! All art! I want to experience it all,” Ruth once said, a sentiment evident in each masterpiece she crafted. Ruth showcased her art at various galleries including House of Colors in Grapevine, Texas, The Community Arts Center in Fort Worth, and as a Resident Artist at the Grapevine Main Street Art Gallery for five years. She was also represented by Xanadu Gallery in Scottsdale and Giddens Gallery of Fine Art in Grapevine. Additionally, she passionately taught art in Grapevine, leaving a lasting legacy. Ruth was a proud member of the Trinity Arts Guild, Grapevine Art Project, and The Arts League. Her exceptional talent earned her numerous accolades during her illustrious career. For three decades, she painted the landscapes of New Mexico and the western states. Throughout her artistic journey, Ruth studied various mediums and techniques, most notably with Elizabeth Robbins and Laura Robb. Her artistry graced many private collections in New Mexico and Texas, with notable exhibits at Casa Rinconada Studio near Taos where she also opened her Cowgirl Studio and Gallery, and completed works commissioned by the Hilton Hotel in Grapevine and other local businesses. A Celebration of Ruth’s life and art will be held at The Giddens Gallery at 624 South Main Street Grapevine, Texas 76051 on Sunday, October 22, 2023 between 1:00-4:00pm Cremation arrangements by Lone Star Cremation.
