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It is with great sadness that the family of Ruth (Follows) Schumacher announce her passing on Friday, Aug. 30 at the age 81. She was the daughter of the late Ruth and Ernest Follows and the wife of John Schumacher. She loved deeply her family, friends, community and Saint John’s Episcopal Church.

She was St John’s first woman lay reader, past president of the Episcopal Church Women, past secretary of the Couples Club, member of the Board of Christian Education, and advisor of the Senior Youth Pilgrim Fellowship. Ruth was also an active member of the Essex community for many years serving as a member of the Board of Education, Democratic Town Committee, Park & Recreation Commission, and as deputy registrar of voters. She truly lived life to the fullest through simple pleasures and sharing her love for others. She was known for her infectious love and shared her heart with all.

She is survived by her husband John Schumacher, her son and daughter-in-law Donald and Christine Schumacher of Ivoryton, her son Eric Schumacher of Waterford, and her grandchildren Aron, Joshua, Madeleine and Olivia.

Her funeral service will be held on Saturday, Sept. 14, at 11 a.m. at Saint John’s Episcopal Church, Main Street, Essex.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made in her memory to St. John’s Episcopal Church, 3 Cross Street, Essex, Ct. 06426.