Ruth Shook

It is with profoundest sadness that we announce the passing of our dearest wife and mother, Ruth Phyllis Shook, who left us on December 25, 2025 at the age of 97, with her family at her side.

Ruth was born on January 6, 1928 on Staten Island, New York, the daughter of Violet and Henry Fernald. The Fernald's returned to their native Maine when Ruth was an infant.

Ruth was a graduate of the University of Maine in Sociology. A pioneer in the field of infant development in Maine, a founder of United Cerebral Palsy of Maine and of Camp Capella and well known for her activities in these fields. For years she served as a respected member of the Maine Association of Infant Mental Health. She will be long remembered by her friends, associates and the families of children whose lives she impacted.

Ruth leaves her husband, William Shook; her daughter, Diane Perry of Rockland, Maine; her step-son, Norris Shook of New Bedford, Mass.; her grandson, Robert Gatcomb of Winter Harbor; niece, Jody Fernald of York, Maine; and nephews, Mark Fernald of Amherst, New Hampshire and Doug Tilton of Palmyra, Maine. Predeceasing Ruth, was her son, Brian Mitchell, a champion for the disabled in his own right.

A celebration of Ruth's life will be held in the Spring.

Contributions in Ruth's memory may be made to Camp Capella. Condolences to the family may be expressed at BrookingsSmith.com