Born July 14, 1914, near Scipio, Okla., Ruby was the last of ten Boyd children blessed to Sam and Mary Boyd. All preceded her in death. Named by her brother Alex who was killed in action in World War I, she married Charlie Blair in 1933. This marriage bond would last 62 years (Charlie died in 1995) while they resided in several eastern Oklahoma communities including Holdenville, Wewoka and McAlester. The couple finally settled in Durant, where they resided for 41 years. Both were permanent fixtures for Sunday evening services in the First Baptist Church. Ruby was also employed at Duke and Ayers for many years.
Ruby’s lifelong passion was the care of her six children. She was the consummate mother, attested by the care given her in the last years of her life by two daughters who learned love and care from their mother.
Long an avid connoisseur of music, she would inspire all her children to appreciate the value of song. Herself a guitar playing singer, Ruby and Charlie regularly began Sunday mornings listening to gospel music beginning with “Give the World a Smile Today”. Celebrating her 94th birthday with family, fireworks and the singing of a few gospel hymns, indeed Ruby every day gave the world a smile.
Preceded in death by husband Charlie, son Tom, and grandson William J. Jr., Ruby is survived by five of her six children: Bill, Kenneth, Mary, Rita, and James Duane. She is also survived by 19 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and four great-great grandchildren. Interment was beside her beloved Charlie in Mesa, Arizona.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made as donations to the Television Ministry at First Baptist Church in Durant, Okla.
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