The family of Ruth Zartman, 79, of Hampton, sadly announces that she went to be with the Lord on Friday, March 17, 2023. She is a native of Crewe, Virginia, and a lifelong resident of the Peninsula. Ruth was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was known to many as “Mama Ruth,” a woman strongly devoted to faith and family. Her generous spirit shined through her smile, hugs, southern cooking, and prayers for others. She loved the beach, her eclectic collection of music, and celebrating Christmas.

Ruth grew up in Hanover, Virginia, and graduated from Lee Davis High School in Mechanicsville, Virginia. She went on to become an award-winning sales associate until her retirement, later in life.

Ruth was the daughter of the late Marian Eley Woods and the late Irvin L. Eley. She was also preceded in death by her sister Naomi Palmquist.

Left to cherish her memory are her three daughters, Lisa Church (Mark), Lynne Flanary (Bruce), and Dawn Tone (Keith); along with eight grandchildren, Lauren Church, Erica Church, Rachel Church, Evan Flanary (Emily), Elise Morris (Ryan), Christin Piercy (Shan), Ashley Swift (Luke), Coty Springer; and seven great-grandchildren, Harper Flanary, Neil Morris, Owen Morris, Oliver Morris, Chloe Piercy, Isla Piercy, and Lydia Piercy.

A Celebration of her life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 23 at 10:00 a.m. at Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, Virginia, followed by the graveside service at 2:00 p.m. at Signal Hill Memorial Park, 12360 Hanover Courthouse Rd., Hanover, Virginia.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.