RuthAnn Chapman Votra

CLEARWATER, Fla. – RuthAnn Chapman Votra, 58, of Clearwater, Fla., passed away on Dec. 28, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on Oct. 16, 1966, in Rochester, N.Y., to Wilson K. “Bill” and Lucille Bail Chapman, RuthAnn spent her early years in Acton, Mass., and Brookline, N.H. She graduated from Hollis Area High School in 1984 and later settled in Maine, where she raised her family and built a life full of love and memories before relocating to the warmth of Clearwater, Fla.

Though she embraced her new home in Florida, RuthAnn’s heart always remained in Maine, which she lovingly referred to as “home.” Summers at Taylor Pond in Auburn were among her fondest childhood memories, where she formed lifelong bonds with neighbors. She married her childhood sweetheart, David Cloutier, who tragically passed away from leukemia shortly after their marriage.

RuthAnn’s vibrant spirit was evident in everything she did. She lived life with passion and purpose, bringing joy to those around her with her radiant smile and infectious laugh. A gifted photographer, she captured the beauty of the world around her, whether in Maine or Florida, and leaves behind a treasured collection of images that reflect her love for family, friends, and nature. Her pets held a special place in her heart, particularly her late dog, Hazard, and her rescue dog, King.

In 2000, RuthAnn married Scott Votra after a chance meeting on a solo trip to Mt. Katahdin. Together they shared 24 years of marriage, raising seven children and welcoming many grandchildren who brought immense joy to her life.

RuthAnn was predeceased by her first husband, David Cloutier; her parents, Bill and Lucille Chapman; and her nephew, Timothy Degulis.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Scott Votra; her children Amanda Leigh Allen and Ethan David Votra; her bonus-children Whitney (Greg) Hoover, Bethany Votra, Nicole Votra, Brandon (Julie) Votra, and Amanda Votra; and her cherished grandchildren Aubrie Cobb, Matthew and Adam Hoover, Kenzee King, David Ryce, Evelyn Smith, Piper, Paisley, Azarias Votra, and Maxwell Allen-Branch. She is also survived by her siblings Marie Degulis, Bill Chapman Jr., Madelyn (Walter) Reed, Matthew (Kim) Chapman, and Claire (Steven) Risteen; her dear sister-in-law, Jeannette Mello; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of RuthAnn’s life will be held in Maine this summer, with details to be announced via social media. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.