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Ruby, Thomas LEGENDARY HIGH SCHOOL COACH LOSES BATTLE WITH CANCER Thomas Clark Ruby, 70, of Longwood, FL passed away peacefully on July 19, 2014 with his family by his side. Tom was born July 19, 1944 to Phoebe and the late Perry Ruby in Tampa, FL. Tom graduated from Lakeview High School before attending Clemson University. After a year at Clemson, Tom transferred to Western Kentucky University where he graduated with a teaching degree and also was a four year letter winner in football for the Hilltoppers. Tom Ruby was a school teacher, track coach and most notably a football coach for over 35 years. Tom coached and taught at several local schools including Lake Highland Preparatory, Trinity, Edgewater and Seminole where he was part of the 2008 state championship team. In 2013, Tom was inducted into the Lake Highland Preparatory Hall of Fame. Tom was known to many as husband, coach, dad, son, brother, grandfather, uncle, father-in-law, friend and mentor. He will be sadly missed by the many people that had the pleasure of being a part of his unique life. Tom is survived by his blessed and loving wife, Susan; daughter, Kimberly Bledsoe (Bryan) Apopka, FL; Son, Eric Ruby (Stephanie) Tampa, FL; daughter, Ashley Patrick (Al) Cass City, MI; grandsons, Carter and Trent Patrick, Austin Ruby; mother, Phoebe Smith Ruby, Sanford, FL; brother, Perry M. Ruby (Alice) Port Charlotte, FL; brother, Chipley O. Ruby (Lise') Debary, FL. He was preceded in death by his father, Perry Ruby. Memorial services will be held at Northland Community Church, 530 Dog Track Rd., Longwood, FL on Thursday July 24, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Kids House of Seminole, 5467 N. Ronald Reagan Blvd., Sanford, FL 32773 or the WKU "W" Club, 292 Alumni Ave., Bowling Green, KY 42102. Arrangements in the care of Baldwin-Fairchild Funeral Home Oaklawn Park Chapel. Please view and sign the family guest book at www.baldwinfairchild.com.
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Had the opportunity to play football at Oak Ridge H.S. for this great man in his early coaching days; and coached at Lake Highland Prep for 5 years- two with Tom- and the 9-1 season there. My football mentor...
Jerry Brewer
Coworker
June 8, 2020
Had the opportunity to play football at Oak Ridge H.S. for this great man in his early coaching days; and coached at Lake Highland H.S. For 5 years- two with Tom- and the 9-1 season there. My football mentor...
Jerry Brewer
Coworker
June 8, 2020
Coach Ruby was a great coach, who helped me in my High School development. I graduated from Trinity Prep in 1977 and went on to Harvard. I am sure he was a great father and husband. Thank you Coach Ruby for all of your time and encouragement. RIP Sir.
Norbert Seals
October 10, 2015
Susan, I just heard about Tom from Wally. So very sorry for you and your family. He certainly was beloved by all who knew him. Prayers for you.
July 31, 2014
So sorry to hear of Coach Ruby's passing. I think I was on one of the first teams he coached after collage. He was at Oak Ridge and the JV head coach in 1969. Is was a pleasure to play for such an outstanding man and coach. Coach you will be missed!!! My thoughts and prayers are with the Ruby family.
Richard Tolle
July 29, 2014
I was saddened to here of Tom's death. I certainly remember his warmth and humor. His phone calls and visits to my office were always a treat. He was a gentle giant who offered great leadership and support to his students in the classroom and to those on the playing field. It is difficult to know what to do in times like these. I want you to know that you and the family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Trish Highland
July 29, 2014
Dear Susan,
Our prayers go out to you and your family at this very sad time. We were so sorry to hear of Tom's passing, but know he is in a better place and no longer suffering.
We hope you find peace and comfort in all the love and wonderful memories he left you with.
With sincere sympathy,
Sharon & Duane Pitts
July 29, 2014
Coach Ruby was a great coach more important a great man. He taught us all a lot about life and was a mentor to all. He will be sorely missed and may the Lord bless him and his family.
John McEwan
July 29, 2014
Thanks for all the beautiful condolences for my dad. He was loved by so many. My daddy will be missed, but he left such a wonderful legacy. God Bless - Kimberly
kimberly bledsoe
July 28, 2014
Tom was the big brother of my friend Chip. He was always supportive of his family and was helpful to "the younger kids" living in the Woodsmere neighborhood while he attended Lakeview High School in Winter Garden.
I followed over the years his career as a coach for many high schools in central Florida.
Chuck Hawthorne
(321)948-0808
July 28, 2014
I had the pleasure of coaching with Tom at Gateway High School in 1989-90. Unfortunately I was of the state and missed the service. Tom was a heck of a coach and the kids loved him. He made us laugh every day. He was patient and generous with the kids and shared lots of wisdom with us younger coaches. He was just a great guy who had a profound effect on the kids and the coaching staff in a very short period of time. My deepest sympathy goes out to his family.
Victor Lorenzano
July 28, 2014
I'll never forget the day I met Tom. I was coming to look at the house we live in now across the street from Tom & Susan and Tom was outside (of course) with Maggie and he said hello and we started talking. He said he hoped we got the house. I'm so glad we did and my husband, children and I got to be a part of Tom & Susan's life. Will always have fond memories of our morning chats Tom. I miss them already. Alex will miss discussing politics with you.
We love you and will never forget you. Love you and praying for you Susan.
Jenny Maer
July 26, 2014
I was out of the country and missed the service. However, I treasure my time with Coach Ruby and the team atmosphere that he created. Even after his diagnosis, he remained a positive influence and an inspiration to those of us who visited him at home. All my best to Susan and Tom's children and grandchildren. PRIDE! Jeff Deery #85
Jeff Deery
July 26, 2014
Coach, what I will remember most about being around you is that I always left the room feeling better then when I walked in. You helped change the course of my life and I'm honored to have been your Quarterback.
David Rider
July 25, 2014
Coach Ruby was awesome! Had many fun times coaching against him at track meets and football games. Even though we were rivals on the field he kept everything very light-hearted. He had a great sense of humor! Even though we were usually coaching against each other I considered him a friend. We have lost a good one and one of a kind! He will be sorely missed! You couldn't help but love the guy!
Virgil Riddle
July 25, 2014
Our condolences to you Susan and the children. It was so good to spend time with you and Tom earlier this year, almost like old times. Look after yourself and let the memories help to fill the void. Love to you and the family, Ed and Wilda Newman
Ed and Wilda Newman
July 25, 2014
Ed and I want to thank Tom for introducing football to our son, Michael Moriarty, when he was around 15. It changed his life. He played collage football, as well, at LeHigh University. The lessons he learned about life from Tom and sports gave base to the successful life he now enjoys.
July 25, 2014
God bless.
Chip Phillips
July 25, 2014
Rest in peace Coach! Thank you for all the life lessons.
Fred Weber
July 25, 2014
I had the privilege of playing for Coach Ruby on the very first varsity football team for the Lake Howell Silver Hawks in the fall of 1974. We always broke the huddle with the word "pride", which I am sure he took alot of pride in not only his football teams but his life and family as well. My condolences to your family coach.
Joff Marcantel
July 25, 2014
Tom Ruby is second, only to my father, as the person who most influenced my life. (My Dad LOVED Tom and would insist Tom be the first to take the BLAME)
The lessons I learned from Coach Ruby can't be found in a book. These lessons were witnessed, experienced, and embedded in my heart to keep forever.
He pushed me to be the best I could be, he insisted I lead.. rather than follow!
He Coached my HEART and Fueled my SOUL.. any talent or athletic ability had no choice but to run, and run fast, just to keep up with him.
Tom and Susan treated me like family. Tom Ruby LOVED being a coach...But he LIVED for Susan, Kim, Eric, and Ashley!
Tom Ruby: Teacher, Coach, Friend, Family Member, Goofball, Dork, Pushover, and Jokester.
The best thing about the lessens learned from Tom Ruby.....He HAS NO IDEA he just changed someone's life...That's who Tom Ruby is!!!
Debbie VanBuskirk Maul
July 24, 2014
My condolences to the family and loved ones of Coach Ruby. He was one of my high school track coaches.
I remember one day he was helping me with hurdles and said: Kathy, there's 4 things you need to do for hurdles, 1. You gotta lean. 2. You gotta kick. 3. You gotta lean. 4. You gotta kick!
He always had a contagious smile and a way to make me laugh. Such a wonderful man.
Kathy Winning(Garsh)
July 24, 2014
Many memories of playing football with Tommy at Lakeview High School. Many years later I had the pleasure of working with Tommy at West Orange High School. Fond memories of his brother and father too. So sorry to hear of his passing. A real "stand-up" guy. He will be missed.
Patrick Moran
July 24, 2014
With our sympathy and prayers for your family.
Vito and Marilyn Napoletano
Vito Napoletano
July 24, 2014
I had the privilege and honor of knowing Tom Ruby, over many years of his high school football career. As the wife of an Assistant & Head Coach Tom worked alongside, he always brought an amazing energy and enthusiasm to the teams he coached. Wow. What a huge loss for us all that he is no longer here. I will always cherish him as a man of integrity, compassion and boundless enthusiasm. To say he will be missed by so many is an understatement. Hugs, kisses and lots of love to Susan and the entire Ruby Family. Much Love, Kristina
Kristina Cullison
July 24, 2014
I was very sad to hear about the passing of Coach Ruby. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Coach Ruby was a great coach, mentor and friend. The best time of my life was playing football at Lake Highland under Coach Ruby and Coach Whitaker.
Brad Schneider
Brad Schneider
July 24, 2014
Tom and I coached at Oak Ridge tgogether. One of the most phenominal Coaches I ever worked with. He was always a role model for all that he coached or worked with.
Gerald Jowers
July 24, 2014
There are so many wonderful memories I have of Ter! I can attest first hand of his unconditional love for his family, friends, and his faith. There is a whole in our hearts and we will miss you dearly. Thank you for being my second dad and always letting me know how proud you were of all of us. Love, Ler
Lauren Johnston
July 24, 2014
My deepest sympathy to Tommy's family.
I worked with Tommy at Edgewater High School. My prayers and thoughts are
with all of you. God Bless. Nancy Weems
Nancy Weems
July 23, 2014
Tommy was a great friend and we had some fun times at Lakeview. Thanks for the memories.
Cleve Pickens
July 23, 2014
Tom Ruby was a role model at Lakeview...I was younger but remember him and Chip..Very nice young men...Sorry for your loss..God's Blessings and may you feel his comfort..... Kay Quigley
Kay Quigley
July 23, 2014
Through out the 80s Tom was my coaching mentor. In the 90s @ EHS I linked up with Tom again. His lighthearted wit, kind and a joyful spirit made Tom special. His laugh was contagious! God bless you Tom.
Steve Muise
July 23, 2014
We were classmates with Tommy at Lakeview High School. He always had a smile and a good word to say about everyone. Tommy worked hard on the football field and at school. He will be missed by everyone who knew and loved him.
Marshall & Donna Sherman
July 23, 2014
Condolences to the Ruby family from Warren and Cathy Brown. Tom and Susan worked for us back in the 80's on our Christmas tree lot. He was a great man who touched many lives.
Warren Brown
July 23, 2014
We will always remember Tom's smile and wonderful way he connected with whoever he was talking with. God bless the Ruby family.
Patty & Joe Byrne
July 23, 2014
The Rubys lived across the lake from us when I was a kid. I always remember them as a very kind and friendly family.
God bless
Richard Brady
Richard Brady
July 23, 2014
I worked with Phoebe Ruby at Walt Disney World, and I send her my deepest condolences on the loss of her son, Thomas.
July 23, 2014
I remember Tommy as a sweet guy with a great sense of humor ... very nice memories. I'm sorry to hear of his passing ...
Sandra (Austin) Connor
July 23, 2014
Coach, you are going to be missed.
Brian Duckworth
July 23, 2014
Of all my boyhood memories, playing football for Coach Ruby was one of my best times. He was always encouraging and leaving you feeling better about yourself & what you could do. Thanks again Coach, you were one of the best.
Phillip Adair
July 23, 2014
Tom was such a tremendous man and devoted to everything he did. We will miss his laugh and great stories. Susan, you and Tom shared a love that everyone strives to achieve. We love you and are here for you. - Betsy & Andy
Betsy & Andy Owens
July 23, 2014
I had the pleasure of working with Tiom at Edgewater High. I say pleasure because, he would come thru the main office and always have a joke to tell that totally uplifted my whole day! The staff and students all loved and respected Tom. His name will live on as a Great Edgewater Eagle!
Blessings to his family at this difficult time
Valeria Lopez
July 23, 2014
I'm deeply saddened for your loss, Susan. You were so devoted to each other. My prayers are with you and your children and grandchildren.
Bobby Sue Silvey
Williamsburg, VA
July 23, 2014
I got reacquainted with Tom and Susan in 2010 while my husband and Susan were in ORMC and Conway Lakes Rehab. So sorry to hear of his passing. Many wonderful memories will sustain all of you.
Mary Alice Phelps
July 23, 2014
so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. he was a great guy that we'll surely miss. our thoughts are with you, Susan, and the entire family during this difficult time.
David and Debbie Maul
July 23, 2014
Coach of all coaches. Many thoughts and memories! You shaped so many young men. I pray for peace and comfort for your family.
Randy Rex
Randall Rex
July 23, 2014
Rest in peace Coach. Thank you for your inspiration and memories
Joe Clark
July 23, 2014
Tom Ruby was a tremendous man; a great coach; a loving husband; and a caring father/grandfather.
Tom will be remembered in our thoughts and prayers.
Mike/Pam Malone
July 23, 2014
Ashley & the entire family so sorry to hear this sad news. Tony & I will be praying for all of you during this sad time. May God hold you all in his loving arms. God Bless
sandra parker
July 23, 2014
Tom loved God, loved his country (a true patriot!), was fun and funny! He will truly be missed. Susan, you, Ashley, Eric and Kimberly are being lifted up in prayer!
Sarah Castor
July 23, 2014
There are too many fond and funny memories for me to share from my lifetime! I can even remember your baby shower! He was really more of a brother to my Daddy than a friend. I was thinking about him the other day on our drive home to Georgia and remembered that he came to see me at Arnold Palmer when Will was born. My heart is so heavy for you, your mom, Kim, and Eric. It gives me comfort to imagine he and my mom up in Heaven laughing and playing bridge. We can't even begin to imagine how wonderful it is there! The reality is that it hurts to be left behind. Love to all of you!!
Carolyn Robertson Cooper
July 23, 2014
It is impossible to know how many young people Coach Ruby positively affected. I know just a few, my brother and his teammates. The lessons he taught were not just about football.
Scott Schneider
July 23, 2014
There are too many stories to tell. I think the greatest thing I've taken from Tom is how gracious he was to accept a skinny, slightly annoying, toe haired middle school boy into his extended family. Even looking back now at some of the outrageous shennanigans Eric and I would get into, Tom was never too harsh on us. I can't imagine any of us who grew up around him didn't think at one point that they wanted to be a little like him when we grew up.
As I write this, I have tears in my eyes. However, I can assure you that I also have a smile on my face. What a great man.
Eric Widerman
July 23, 2014
I had the pleasure of working with Tom at Edgewater. He was a great teacher and coach., an inspiration to his students and colleagues . He will be missed. The world was a better place with him in it.
Sue Nadeau
July 23, 2014
Coach Ruby was a teacher, inspiration, leader and hero. Some of my most important life lessons were learned from him on the track in high school and are carried with me all these years later. I am so very sorry for your loss, he was a great man and will be dearly missed.
Heather Higbee
July 23, 2014
Mr.Ruby was like a 2nd Dad to most of Ashley's friends in high school. He always looked out for us girls and was quick to give us a hug. I will always be thankful that he was there with a shoulder to cry on during some of my toughest times. He was the fun Dad that was always cracking jokes and not letting us take ourselves too seriously. Thank you Ashley for sharing him with us. He will forever hold a special place in my heart.
Nicole Thornton-Palacio
July 23, 2014
Tom was such a sweet, special soul. I will forever cherish hearing his stories over dinner the last few times we all were able to get together. He had such passion for his career. I'm sure he made a great impact on many lives. Also, I will ALWAYS remember his laughter when I see Chevy Chase in Christmas Vacation! Thank you for always being so kind to me, Tom. You will be dearly missed. I know you are flying with the angels above. Much love to the entire Ruby family!!! You are all in my prayers.
Tracey Swanson
July 23, 2014
Wish I had something that could take away the pain, but the best epitaph I can think of us is great coach, better husband, teacher and man.
John Devine
July 22, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. My God wrap his loving arms around you and your family now and the days to come. Tom was a big influence on so many young people. Jun
June Olvey Smith
July 22, 2014
Tom and Susan were like a second set of parents to me back in my early 20's when I lived in Orlando. Tom was always checking on me and inviting me over for dinner with the family and was always looking to set me up with someone, lol!
I was beyond fortunate to become friends with Ashley in college not only because she is one of the most wonderful people I know, but also because she invited me into her family giving me the privilege of getting to spend time with Tom.
Stephanie Breiwa
July 22, 2014
I will always remember Tom's booming voice and smile. Many fond memories on Eastland Point--dinners, cookouts and holidays. Y'all took us in and made us feel like family.??
Little Shuford
July 22, 2014
Coach Ruby was the best. He was a perfect combination of tough and relational with a great sense of humor. Coaches have an opportunity to mold their players into better people, and that is what he did, not many do. I am forever grateful to have been one of his players, and helping mold me into the man I am today. Thank you to all of the Ruby's with sharing him with me and so many others. I am so sorry for your loss.
Bobby Hewitt
Bobby Hewitt
July 22, 2014
Coach, you were a lot of things to me. You were my coach, my mentor and most of all my friend. You helped make me the man I am today. The lessons that I learned from you are used on a daily basis in my life, my sons life and the players lives that I coach. I am forever grateful for everything that you have done for me on and off the field. It was in honor to go on the field of battle with you every Friday night. Your spirit will not fade, it will live on in the hearts of the people you have touched. I think I speak for all of my Eagle teammates when I say Fly like the eagle that you are, you have most definitely earned your wings. I love you Coach with all my heart and you will be greatly missed.
Tony Salerno
July 22, 2014
Coach Ruby I had the pleasure of playing for you at Edgewater HS. Even though I played offense it was a pleasure to play for a team you were part of. RIP Coach. And may God comfort the ones left behind.
Will Irizarry Class of 1994 #30
July 22, 2014
Tom was a longtime friend over the past 40 years. We shared many wonderful memories together and, even though I moved away several years ago, we managed to keep in contact with one another and discuss the things we both enjoyed the most. I will remember him always and be forever thankful for having him as my friend. Susan, Mary and I send our love and our prayers to you and your family.
Brad Smith (Atlanta, Ga.)
Brad Smith
July 22, 2014
Tom was a wonderful person who touched the lives of many and will forever live in the hearts of those of us who respected and loved him.
Sherri Greer
July 22, 2014
Tom you were such an amazing person and will be missed greatly!! There will definetly be a huge void in our hearts and also the Bolling Farms subdivision! Love, Jim and Dawn Annis
Dawn Annis
July 22, 2014
We are so sorry.
Sharon Parks
July 21, 2014
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