Celebrating the Life of Ruth Ann Stimley: A Beacon of Light and Generosity

Ruth Ann Stimley, a woman whose spirit radiated kindness and whose actions embodied philanthropy, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2025 in Houston, TX. Born on December 28, 1947, in Jackson, Mississippi, to the late Parthenia Lee McGee and Johnnie McGee, Sr., Ruth Ann's life was a testament to the power of resilience, the warmth of family, and an unwavering commitment to serving others.

Growing up as one of nine siblings in a close-knit family of eight sisters and one brother, Ruth Ann learned early the strength found in unity and the joy of shared laughter. Her spiritual foundation was laid at Davis Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Raymond, MS, where she confessed Christ in her youth.

Ruth Ann excelled academically at Sumner Hill High School in Clinton, MS, where she was also a spirited majorette. She was married on August 2, 1968, to her beloved late husband, Sherman Stimley. The family moved to Boston, MA, and her pursuit of knowledge continued after and she furthered her education.

A woman of extraordinary drive and multifaceted talent, Ruth Ann seamlessly navigated various roles with grace and excellence. After moving to Houston, TX, she built a distinguished career as a real estate broker and interior designer, demonstrating remarkable creativity and business acumen. Her entrepreneurial spirit also led to successful ventures in insurance and business sales.

Beyond her professional achievements, Ruth Ann's heart overflowed with a desire to help others. A dedicated philanthropist and humanitarian, she passionately contributed to numerous projects, including the significant endeavor of providing rehabilitation and lodging for veterans.

Ruth Ann remained deeply connected to her community, sharing her wisdom and love for learning as a speaker and contributor to the Stimley Blue Ridge Library, an institution named in honor of her late husband. Her faith was an integral part of her life, finding solace and community as a proud member of Windsor Village Church. To know Ruth Ann was to experience the warmth of her generous spirit and her unwavering support for fellow entrepreneurs.

Together with her late husband Sherman, Ruth Ann lovingly raised two devoted sons, Daryl Stimley and Courtland Stimley. Her legacy lives on through them and her cherished grandchildren, Nathyan Stimley and Imani Stimley, who brought her immeasurable joy and pride.

Ruth Ann was preceded in death by her husband, Sherman Stimley; her parents, Johnnie McGee, Sr. and Parthenia Lee McGee; and her sisters, Pearlie Mae Wilson, Clementine Johnson, Samella Banks, Georgetta McGee, Emma B. Fisher, Parthenia Davis; and her brother, Johnnie McGee Jr.

She leaves to cherish her memory her sons, Daryl (Angela) Stimley of Houston, TX, and Cortland Stimley of Austin, TX; her beloved grandchildren, Nathyan Stimley and Imani Stimley; her sister, Annie Marie Thomas of Jackson, MS; and a host of extended family and friends who will forever hold her inspiring life and kind heart in their memories.

Ruth Ann's determination, elegance, and boundless love for family and community will be deeply missed. Her laughter, her wisdom, and her warmth have left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her.