Martha “Ruth” Schmalz

Martha “Ruth” Schmalz, age 79, passed away peacefully on December 8, 2025, at Chapel Ridge Health and Rehabilitation in Fort Smith, Arkansas. She was born on March 17, 1946, in Charleston, Arkansas, to Charley Haney and Violet (Inkebarger) Haney.

Ruth was a proud graduate of County Line High School in Branch, Arkansas, where she performed as a majorette. Her talent for baton twirling first caught the eye of the love of her life, William Joseph Schmalz. The two married on December 15, 1971, and would have celebrated 54 wonderful years together this year. After high school, Ruth worked in several garment factories, sharpening her skills as a skilled and dependable lead seamstress. She later began a 30-year career with Planter’s Peanuts, where she served in many roles until her well-earned retirement.

Ruth was an avid Razorbacks fan and could often be found cheering on her team during football and basketball seasons. She even created her own “Razorback Room,” proudly displaying her favorite memorabilia. In her younger years, she and William enjoyed nights out dancing or taking spirited drives together. Above all, Ruth cherished her family. Her grandchildren were the joy of her life, and she delighted in caring for them and spoiling them at every opportunity. She converted to Catholicism and deeply valued her spiritual life. Ruth will be remembered as a selfless, loving wife, mother, and grandmother—one whose thoughtfulness and strong spirit helped keep her family grounded.

Ruth is survived by her devoted husband, William Schmalz, of the home; her son, Duane Schmalz of Fort Smith; her grandchildren, Ryan Schmalz and Hannah Melton; and her siblings, Steve Haney, David Haney, and Ann Rogers. She also leaves behind a host of extended family members and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Delores Classon; and her brother, Tommy Haney.

A visitation with a Rosary will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at Lewis Funeral Chapel, 4817 Kelley Hwy, Fort Smith, Arkansas. The Funeral Mass will take place at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at Sacred Heart of Mary Catholic Church. A private interment will be held by the family at a later time. Father Matt Garrison will officiate, with pallbearers being Ryan Schmalz, Josh Melton, Jacob Dunlap, and Steve Smithson. Honorary pallbearers are Steve Haney and David Haney. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Sacred Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Ruth’s memory. Services are entrusted to Lewis Funeral Chapel.