of Byhalia, MS
July 4, 1933 - June 11, 2023
Ruby Lee Key Johnson, 89 years old, of Byhalia, MS (formerly of Helena, AR) entered God's Heavenly Kingdom on June 11, 2023 at DeSoto Health Care in Southaven, MS. She was born on July 4, 1933 in Westor, AR to James Fred Key and Gertrude Little Key.
Ruby was a loving and devoted wife and the mother of two daughters. She was preceded in death by her husband of 72 years, Delbert Johnson. She is survived by her loving daughters, Debby Johnson Corley (husband, Bobby), and Gayle Johnson Odom (husband, Eddy) all of Byhalia, MS. She has three grandchildren, Christy Brown, Kyle Rodgers (wife, Halle) and Kaci Willard (husband, Landon) all of Olive Branch, MS. She has four great-grandchildren, Wyatt Rodgers, Hayes Rodgers, Andi Willard and Reid Willard along with many wonderful sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews, whom she loved so much.
Ruby was one of twelve siblings and has one surviving sibling, Jerry Key, Sr. She was preceded in death by siblings, J.C. Key, Charles Key, Horace Key, Juanita Bailey, Frances McGee, Pearlie Huey, Howard Key, Sue Maynard and Barbara Bishop.
Ruby was a very hard worker. Her working history included Bobbie Brooks Sewing Factory in West Helena, AR, Daggett's Drug Store in Marianna, AR, Experiment Soil Testing Station in Marianna, AR, Central High School in Helena, AR and retired from Great Rivers Education Co-Op in Helena, AR.
Ruby enjoyed league bowling, reading, crochet, family genealogy and loved vanilla ice cream almost as much as her family, but not quite. She was a faithful member of Cedar View Baptist Church, where she regularly attended for the years prior to her illness.
Visitation will be held at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 14, 2023 at Roller-Citizens Funeral Home, Marianna, Arkansas, funeral services at 2:30 p.m. followed by a graveside service at Sunset Memorial Gardens, West Helena, AR.
Sign Guestbook
14 Condolence(s)
Lynn Fant Johnson
Thursday, July 6, 2023
I am so sorry to hear about Aunt Ruby. She was always so kind and sweet to us. My mother (Helen McElduff Fant) considered her a good friend. They are together now. My prayers go out to you: Debbie, Gayle and the rest of her family and friends. I know she is missed but you will see her and Uncle Delbert again.
DIANE KIMBLE
Wednesday, June 14, 2023
MRS. RUBY WAS THE SWEETEST LADY. ALWAYS WEARING A SMILE. HEAVEN HAS GAINED ANOTHER ANGEL.
Shari Bishop
Wednesday, June 14, 2023
Aunt Ruby was a beautiful woman inside and out. Her love of life was infectious. My heart is broken that she is no longer with us here on earth, but I know that she is happy to be with Uncle Delbert and her other family members. Prayers and love for Debby, Gayle, and all those who will miss her so much!
Paul & Connie Brown
Wednesday, June 14, 2023
Debby:
Our hearts go out to you in regard to your mother’s homegoing. May God give you and Bobby and the entire family comfort, strength, and guidance as you adjust to your mother’s change of address.
In Christian Love and Friendship,
Paul & Connie Brown
Norma Waggoner
Tuesday, June 13, 2023
You and your family have my deepest sympathy. I have you all in my prayers.
Patricia Davis
Tuesday, June 13, 2023
I remember your mom’s sweet smile. The times I visited in her home she was always so welcoming.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Richard & Margarita Wooten
Monday, June 12, 2023
Aunt Ruby was such a special lady. Full of life, love, and kindness with everyone she met. Prayers for the family during this difficult time. We will alway remember you Aunt Ruby. God Bless. You will be missed, but I know you're enjoying rejoicing with Delbert and your siblings. Please say hi to my Mom.
Linda Webb
Monday, June 12, 2023
I thank God for allowing me to know and love Ruby. This exceptional woman was a source of inspiration to a lot of people. I pray for comfort for the family and peace in knowing they will be reunited.
Charlotte Johnson Rose
Monday, June 12, 2023
Gayle and Debbie
I am so sorry for your loss. It is so difficult losing a parent. Prayers for the families
Charlotte Johnson Rose
Betty and George Hixon
Monday, June 12, 2023
George and I send Ruby's family our deepest sympathy and love. She was a wonderful, kind woman and we were honored to know her. May God give you all peace and comfort.
Marie laughter-Dunlap
Monday, June 12, 2023
Y’all are all in my thoughts and prayers. Mrs Ruby was a sweet member of Cedarview Baptist Church. I always enjoy greeting her and Mr Gilbert, and talking to them! Praying for y’all for safe travels to funeral!
Louise and William Medlin
Monday, June 12, 2023
We always loved talking to Mrs.Ruby she was a great christian lady she will be missed.
Cammie Johnson Leer
Monday, June 12, 2023
My prayers, thoughts and love is with the Family during this time. Aunt Ruby was always so sweet and kind. â¤ï¸
Janice Daniels
Monday, June 12, 2023
Praying for God’s comfort to surround your family at this time.