Mrs. Ruthie Y. Nelson White

Obituary of Ruthie Yvette Nelson White

Ruthie Yvette Nelson White was born to Rev. George W. Nelson Jr. and Ruthie Mae James Nelson in Dallas, Texas on June 20, 1957. As a preacher’s kid, Ruthie was raised in a Christian home and accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age. Ruthie was called to eternal rest on November 30, 2023.

Ruthie graduated as salutatorian from Franklin D. Roosevelt High School, Dallas, Texas in 1975. She was a determined student and began to set her course toward becoming a Texas trailblazing attorney. She received her BBA from University of Texas at Austin, an MBA from University of Houston and her JD from South Texas College of Law Houston. Her work experience ranged from a procurement position at Fluor and multiple human resources and procurement positions at Conoco Inc. before becoming a practicing attorney.

Ruthie was always one to have an opinion and no hesitation about sharing it. She was passionate about diversity in the workplace, as well as fairness and equality in all areas of life. She loved her work families and believed in the value of mentoring. Her primary passion was mentoring youth, seeding their dreams and encouraging their accomplishments. This mentoring spirit was also evident at the law firms who were blessed to employ her. She found her role at Spencer Fane to be the perfect fit for her style and passion. Ruthie’s most recent accomplishments included, Texas Super Lawyer 2022 and recognition by the Houston Business Journal, in their article, “Women Who Mean Business 2022”. She was a master storyteller and a much sought-after speaker for her dynamic and stimulating diversity presentations.

Ruthie loved Agatha Christie movies, family game nights, Starbucks, gospel music, and giving gifts. She was a “because I said so” kind of person, not only with her biological family but also her work family; and we loved her for it. She appreciated a good debate. Her strong convictions, focused points of view and unapologetic rebuttals could shift your thinking in a heartbeat.

Creating connections and opportunities was in her DNA. She enjoyed bringing people together for a purpose. This personality trait was personified when she spearheaded the founding of The Downtown Group (TDG), comprised of African-American female attorneys, and The Network Group, Conoco’s first affinity network group. TDG started in 1997 with 10 individuals, this group now has over 300 members. The Network Group continues into its 37th year. When you met Ruthie, you would remember her enthusiasm and her personality.

Her family was of utmost importance to her. She was a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, niece, godmother, and friend. Her dedication and love for them was not only spoken, but evident in all of her actions.

Ruthie was a faithful member of the Covenant Glen Church. She founded the Legal Eagle Ministry which is now being named in her honor. She was always available to provide support and encouragement to many of the Covenant Glen ministries. Ruthie is preceded in death by her parents and her brother, William Nelson.

She is survived by her husband, Keith, and children Evan (Samantha) and Nathan. Her sister, Bettye Nelson. Two nieces, Shaneika Frazier and Wilnesha Nelson. Two nephews, Nick Crenshaw and Jonathan Nelson. Two goddaughters, Jasmine DeBose and Monique Coleman. Two GrandPups, Ruby and Karat. A host of aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, mentors, mentees, co-workers and earthly angels.

                                    In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:

The Ruthie White Legal Eagle Ministry                                        Fort Bend Women's Center

Covenant Glen Church                                                                 501 East Hwy 90A

5243 Savannah Parkway                                                              P.O. Box 183

Rosharon, TX 77583                                                                     Richmond, TX 77406

346-476-7082                                                                                281-344-5750

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