Ruth Ann McQuitty

Ruth Ann McQuitty, a lifelong resident of Odessa, Texas passed away at 73 after a lengthy illness on April 11, 2026. She was born on February 26, 1953 in San Antonio, Texas to the late Mary Lu and Bill Shaw. She was a primary educator for over 30 years. After graduating from Permian High School in 1971, she attended UTPB. Upon graduation, she began her career as an elementary kindergarten teacher. Her master’s degree led her to the UTPB teaching early childhood courses where she was a devoted educator for decades helping to shape the lives of future educators. 

Ruth Ann was a loving mother who raised her sons Michael and David in the First Methodist Church. She loved her time with FUMC Odessa, MYF, hand bells, and choir. She played the flute in the Permian High School Symphonic Band and was a member of the National Honor Society. Ruth Ann was devoted to our late mother. Our mother always said she would have been lost without Ruth Ann’s loving care.

During holidays she loved to play Spades and Scattergories. Her biggest game challenger was her brother Billy who held her to a one point advantage either way. Earl Shaw, her late brother, was always on hand to fix something for her. Spending time with family was a joy for Ruth Ann. Trips to Ruidoso to visit cousins were a special time. The time spent with family on Dover Drive was always a special time too. Aunts, uncles, grandparents, cousins and friends would gather for fun, food, and fellowship. The smells of homemade food, the laughter and love were a big part of her life.

Ruth Ann is survived by David and Tyffani McQuitty, Michael and Cassie McQuitty, Billy Shaw and Jimmy Hill, Brenda and Jeremy Shaw, and her grandchildren Madie and Marlie McQuitty, Tommy Franklin, William Smyers, Micah and Sarah Butry and great grandchild Nora Franklin. 

The viewing will be Thursday, April 16th from 5 PM – 8 PM at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Funeral service will be at First Methodist Church of Odessa on Friday 17, 2026 at 11:00 AM with internment at Sunset Memorial Gardens to follow.