Ruby Smith

Ruby Ross

Ruby Ross, age 79, of Stuttgart, Arkansas, passed away on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Ohio's Hospice of Dayton.

She was born on April 26, 1946, in Stuttgart, Arkansas, to the late J.D. Harris and Flossie Campbell.

Ruby was preceded in death by her first husband David Ross, her father, J.D. Harris; her stepmother, Gertrude (Carter) Harris; and her half-brother, James Harris.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her devoted husband, Randy Scott Smith; her children, Penny Ross of Aiea, Hawaii, Candace (Willie) Boatman of Sidney, Ohio, and Eugenia Castillo of Columbus, Georgia; her stepchildren, Rhonda (Lonnie) Smith-Blevins of Piketon, Ohio, Crystal Smith of Piketon, Ohio, and Matt (Cait) Smith of Cleveland, Ohio; her half-sisters, Mary Lou Harris of Troy, Ohio, and Patricia Harris of Troy, Ohio. Ruby was a proud and loving "Nana" to many grandchildren. She also leaves behind nieces, cousins, extended family, and a host of dear friends.

Ruby was a graduate of Troy High School. She dedicated many years of service to Copeland Corporation before continuing her career as a lab technician with Friendly Ice Cream (Hershey), where she worked for over 20 years. She later worked for the government until her retirement. She also achieved a significant academic milestone by earning her master's degree in microbiology from Ohio State University.

In her spare time, Ruby found joy in bowling, fishing, traveling, and visiting the casino. Above all, she cherished her family. Ruby was known for her beautiful and loving spirit, and her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

In accordance with Ruby's wishes, her body will be donated to science at Wright State University, after which she will be cremated. A private service will be held for her family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Ruby's memory to Ohio's Hospice of Dayton, 324 Wilmington Avenue, Dayton, Ohio 45420.