Ruth Jane Mays Fitzgerald

Ruth Jane Mays Fitzgerald, 98, of Amherst, Virginia, peacefully passed away on July 22, 2026. Born on June 5, 1928, in Montebello, Virginia, Ruth was the daughter of the late Howard and Nannie Campbell Mays. 

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 68 years, Denver Fitzgerald; her brother, Willie Mays; her sister, Euna Cash and her husband, George; her brother-in-law, Charles Young; and her cherished granddaughter, Jessica Fitzgerald.

She is lovingly remembered by her sons, Peditt Fitzgerald (Janet) and Charles Fitzgerald (Tina); her grandchildren, Robert Fitzgerald, Sabrina Fitzgerald (Wayne), and Daniel Fitzgerald (Tonya); her great-grandchildren, Dakota Fitzgerald (Hailey) and James Covey; and her great-great-grandchildren, Kaiden Lane and Camden Coleman. She also leaves behind her dear sister, Eula Young, and many extended family members and friends, who were blessed to know her.

Ruth’s greatest joy in life was caring for her family. Nothing made her happier than having a house full of loved ones gathered around her table. She was known for preparing hearty meals on her old wood cookstove, making sure no one ever left her home hungry. Her kitchen was a place of warmth, laughter, and unconditional love.

She embodied the strength, determination, and resilience of her generation. Ruth worked tirelessly throughout her life, tending a large garden, preserving its harvest by canning vegetables over an open fire, splitting wood for the cookstove and wood heater, and carrying water from a nearby spring to the house. She never shied away from hard work and approached every task with quiet grace and unwavering dedication.

More than anything, Ruth will be remembered for her loving heart, generous spirit, and the deep devotion she showed to her family every day of her life. Her legacy lives on in the values she instilled, the traditions she passed down, and the countless memories shared around her table.

Her family finds comfort in knowing she has been reunited with the love of her life, Denver, and those who went before her. Though she will be deeply missed, her love and example will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Ruth was a long-time member of Piney River Baptist Church.

The family would like to thank Fairmont Crossing staff for the care given to her during her stay, especially including her in all the wonderful activities. She really loved all of you.

Her Celebration of Life will be held 1 p.m. on Saturday, July 25th, 2026 at Byrum-Parr Funeral Home by Pastor James Bryant, with visitation from 12 to 1 p.m. Burial will follow in Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church Cemetery.