Ruth M. Esteves

Ruth M. (White) Esteves, 90, of Shrewsbury and long-term resident of West Boylston, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loved ones on Tuesday, February 27, 2024. 

Ruth is survived by her children; William Esteves and wife Barbara of Weddington, NC, Manuel Esteves Jr. and his wife Lauri of Sterling, Rodger Esteves and his wife Karen of Shrewsbury, Barry Esteves and his wife Mindy-Lou of West Boylston, Gary Esteves and his wife Ann of Leominster, and Melissa Knaub and her husband Scott of Channahon IL. She was predeceased by her husband of 61 years, Manuel Esteves Sr. and daughter April Dupont. Ruth lived to see fifteen grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.  

Ruth was born and raised in Shrewsbury where she graduated from Beal High in 1952. She lovingly mothered seven children and later joined the work force at Micro Networks in Worcester as an Administrative Sales Associate. Ruth was active in her church as a religious education teacher, eucharistic minister, and a team member of the bereavement ministry. In her later years, she was an active volunteer at the West Boylston Senior Center.

Ruth loved spending time with her family, gardening, and playing cards.  She was quick with a smile, brought love and joy to all that met her, was a source of strength and support, and always put others first. She enriched our lives in such a way that there was no doubt that we were loved by her.  As she quoted in her high school yearbook, “It’s nice to be natural, when you’re naturally nice”

Calling Hours and Funeral Services will be held on Monday morning, March 4; with Calling Hours from 8:45 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. at Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation St. Worcester, followed by a procession to Our Lady of Good Council Church, 111 Worcester St. West Boylston, where Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Interment will follow in Mount Vernon Cemetery, West Boylston.

The family would like to thank Gentiva Hospice for their compassionate excellent care.   In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to West Boylston Senior Center, 120 Prescott St., West Boylston MA 01583.