Ruth Cromartie

Ruth Shipp Cromartie, 80, of Virginia Beach, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2025. She was born July 5, 1945, in North Carolina to the late Coyer Morris Shipp and Pauline Shipp.

Ruth was the devoted wife of the late Phillip Cromartie, Sr., and together they raised two beloved sons who will always cherish her memory: Phillip Cromartie, Jr. and Christopher Cromartie; brother Glen Shipp; sister Becky Shipp; and two grandchildren Stephen and Caroline Cromartie.

After earning her bachelor's degree in psychology from Wake Forest University while raising her young family, Ruth dedicated her life to helping others. She began as a volunteer with Contact Tidewater, where she supported people in crisis and was especially committed to helping those with hearing impairments. Later, she served as a crisis counselor with the City of Norfolk, working side-by-side with police to guide people through their hardest moments and connect them with the resources they needed.

Her compassion carried her into work with a women's shelter, and in her later years she continued giving of herself at an elder care home in Virginia Beach. Ruth's entire life reflected her boundless heart. She was always there for others, offering comfort, guidance, and kindness in their most difficult times.

Ruth will be deeply missed by her sons and by the countless lives she touched through her work and care.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Coyer and Pauline Shipp, and her husband, Phillip Cromartie, Sr.

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At this time, no services are planned. Arrangements are in the care of Altmeyer Funeral Home, Southside Chapel.