Ruth Delores Baker, 78, of Shelbyville, passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, September 4, 2026.

Ruth was born September 12, 1947, in Indianapolis, the daughter of Harold and Louise Lee.

Ruth lived a life centered on faith, family, and serving others. She genuinely loved people and was generous and caring, often putting the needs of others ahead of her own. She had a special heart for individuals with special needs and disabilities and was a strong advocate for making sure they were valued, supported, and given opportunities.

Ruth faithfully attended Shelbyville Community Church for many years. She cared deeply about her community, serving for many years on the board of Shares, Inc., an organization whose mission was especially close to her heart. She was also a member of the Shelbyville History Club.

For nearly three decades, Ruth and her husband, Dennis, worked side by side at their family business, Builders Lumber and Hardware, which they owned and operated from 1988 through 2016. The business brought many customers, employees, and lasting friendships into Ruth’s life, and those relationships meant a great deal to her.

Ruth loved playing golf and especially enjoyed the laughter and time spent with others that came with the game. She also loved spending her winters in Florida, enjoying the sunshine, warm weather, and time with friends by the pool.

Above all, Ruth loved her family. She especially treasured being a grandmother to Hanna and Eli and the time and memories they shared together.

On August 5, 1967, Ruth married Dennis J. Baker. During their 59 years of marriage, they raised their family, built a business, served their community, and shared a lifetime together.

In addition to her husband, Dennis, Ruth is survived by her sons, Brian (wife, Kris) Baker and Doug Baker; grandchildren, Hanna Baker and Eli Baker; brother, Mike (wife, Angie) Lee; sisters, Cathy (husband, Jr.) Martin and Debbie (husband, Pat) Brown; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Louise Lee; her sister, Sandy Hendrickson; and her brothers-in-law, Bill Hendrickson and Todd Schwenn.

Ruth will be remembered for her generous heart, the way she cared for others, her love for her family, and the many lives she touched. She leaves behind a legacy of putting others first and making a difference in the lives of those around her.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, September 9, 2026, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Murphy-Parks Funeral Services, 703 S. Harrison St., Shelbyville, Indiana.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, September 10, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Shelbyville Community Church, 720 N. 325 E., Shelbyville, Indiana, with Pastor Brad Davis officiating.

Memorial contributions honoring Ruth may be made to Shelby County Special Olympics, in care of Murphy-Parks Funeral Services.

Funeral Directors Greg Parks, Sheila Parks, and Stuart Parks are honored to serve Ruth’s family.