Ruby Parsons Shaver

Ruby Maddux Parsons Shaver passed away on Saturday, October 10, 2009 at the age of 91. Born in Granville, TN, Ruby was a true Southern belle with a strong will, independent nature, and a creative spirit who loved design, fashion and travel. Ruby outlived her parents, Claire Fox and Will Ford Maddux; sisters, Nell Olmstead and Evelyn Rippy and husbands, Dr. John C. Parsons and Ret. Navy Captain Philip Shaver. With Dr. Parsons, she raised three children, created lovely homes, and was an active volunteer in the San Antonio Medical Auxiliary (President), Battle of Flowers, and Lantana Garden Club (President), among others. She was a member of Oak Hills Country Club, San Antonio Country Club, and the Argyle. A founding member of Trinity Baptist Church, she worked on the initial decoration of the sanctuary and chapel. After the loss of Dr. Parsons, Ruby pursued a career as an interior decorator and home builder. She married Philip Shaver and traveled the world. Ruby is survived by her children, Merribell Parsons, Dr. John C. Parsons, Jr. and M'Lissa Parsons, as well as daughter-in-law, Jean Parsons; niece, Kay van Cleve; nephew, Joseph Rippy; granddaughters, Ashley Parsons Miles, Megan Parsons Lindberg, and Shawn Parsons Reed and their husbands; great-grandchildren, Elise and Katie Miles, Beverly and Parsons Lindberg, and Nicolas and Gabrielle Reed. The family thanks caregiver Blanche Smith and Lori Cooper for their devotion to Ruby's care, and the staff at Rescare, Brighton Gardens and VistaCare. A memorial service is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. on Friday, October 16, 2009 at the Thrift Chapel at Trinity Baptist Church, preceded by a private burial at Mission Park. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Alzheimer's Foundation.