Ruth Lee Ruffner

Ruth Ruffner was born in the Bronx, New York on December 18, 1932, to Dr. Morris and Hannah Chamurich. She passed away peacefully on October 28, 2025, in Sherman Oaks, California from complications of pneumonia. She fought valiantly for several weeks and was surrounded by her family at the end, knowing that she was loved.

Ruth was highly educated, graduating from Hunter College before earning her master’s degree from Long Island University. Following her studies, Ruth dedicated her career to serving children as both an elementary and special education teacher. After retiring from the classroom, she continued her lifelong commitment to helping others, volunteering tirelessly in hospitals and, later, in libraries. Most recently, she devoted her time to the Rancho Mirage Public Library, where her kindness, patience, and love of learning touched all who crossed her path.

Ruth was an outgoing, warm, and deeply sociable woman. She was a devoted mother not only to her children, but to their friends and spouses as well — embracing each of them as her own. She spoke her mind with spirit and humor, and her intelligence, grace, and love of reading were evident to all who knew her. Wherever she went, she filled the room with laughter and life.

Ruth was a radiant presence, a beautiful light in the lives of all who had the privilege to know her. Her journey was marked by love, generosity, and boundless warmth. Her passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of her family and friends, and her legacy of joy and compassion will forever be cherished.

Ruth is survived by her son, Richard Sherman, a successful lawyer in Beverly Hills and her daughter Susan Sherman, a long-term successful educator at The Buckley School, and her spouse, Pamela Juhos. She is also survived by her three grandchildren, Gregory Sherman (41 years old) and his wife Nicole, Jade Sherman (38 years old), and David Sherman (34 years old) as well as her younger sister, Eve Schneps. She was predeceased by her husbands, who all loved and adored her.

Services will be held on November 3, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., beginning at Forest Lawn, 69855 Ramon Rd., Cathedral City, and continuing at Desert Memorial Park, 31-705 Da Vall Dr., Cathedral City.