Ruth Joyce Dunham

Ruth Joyce Dunham

Ruth, affectionately known as Ruby, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2024, just one day after her 84th birthday. She was born on October 22,1940, in St. Louis, Missouri. She started college at Washington University and finished at Cal Berkeley. Ruth spent most of her adult life residing in Berkeley, California.

Ruth was a highly skilled computer programmer, whose intelligence and wit left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Ruth did everything her way and was known for her sharp mind, gallows humor and unwavering opinions. She was rarely wrong, a trait that her family and friends often observed with a mix of respect, trepidation and playful exasperation.

Ruth's love for life was evident in her many hobbies; she found joy in reading, attending the theater, visiting with family and friends, and traveling overseas. She had a particular fondness for Ireland, where her only sister settled and raised a family. It quickly became her favorite place in the world, besides Berkeley.

She had a special place in her heart for petrale’ sole meuniere’, avocados, prosceco, and chocolate eclairs. She loved good wine with dinner followed by an occasional “snort” of Raynal french brandy.

Her love for music was evident, she was a fan of Johnny Cash. In her final years, Ruth became an avid watcher of "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel," enjoying the wit, charm and historical sets of the show. Bridge and canasta were her sports of choice, where she often engaged in friendly competition with Friend and foe alike.

Ruth is Predeceased by her parents, Joe Ellis and Ola Freda Dunham, her sister Janet Banville and beloved husband, Donald Sherman.

She is survived by her devoted son, David Allen Sherman, daughter-in-law Holly Amber Sherman, and her cherished grandchildren Elianna Lily Jensen, Nathaniel Scott Samuel Sherman and Cierrah Maryann Israel. She Is also survived by her cousin Ellen Salassi, brother Larry Dunham, Aunt Fotch and many other cousins, nieces and nephews.

Throughout her life, Ruth was deeply committed to giving back to her community, volunteering at the downtown Berkeley library and supporting numerous charities. Doctors without borders and all Democratic causes were near and dear to her heart. Her legacy of kindness, love and generosity will never be forgotten.

She will be dearly missed by her grieving family and all who had the privilege of knowing her, Godspeed, Ruby, Godspeed!

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