Ruth Eloise Lewis, 80, of Flagstaff, passed away April 15, 2011. She was born December 23, 1930 in Glendale, California to Floyd and Ethel Groshong, and she grew up in Burbank, CA. Mrs. Lewis was known as "The Encourager"; she loved to read her Bible, to pray, and her relationship with God and Jesus Christ was very important to her. She had worked as a volunteer chaplain at the Hospital. She was a Sunday School teacher for many years and was also involved in women's ministry. Mrs. Lewis enjoyed her family and was very proud of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Despite her cancer, she had a very positive attitude about life.

Mrs. Lewis is survived by her daughters: Carolyn Butler, Loralyn Brown (Gary), and Jane Cross (Bob); her son Philip Lewis (Debbie); 13 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren and one niece and one nephew. She was preceded in death by her husband Herbert Lewis and her brother C.D. Van Pelt.

A graveside service will take place Thursday, April 21, 2011 at 2:00pm at Citizens' Cemetery, 1300 S. San Francisco St., Flagstaff, AZ. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Northland Hospice, PO Box 997, Flagstaff, AZ, 86002.