Ruby Talton Craig

Ruby Talton Craig, age 85, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2025. Ruby lived a life marked by compassion, faith, and unwavering dedication to others. Raised by her loving aunt and uncle, Grace and Jess Talton, Ruby grew into a woman whose presence brought warmth and comfort to all who knew her. She was a lifelong learner who believed deeply in the power of growth and understanding. Her commitment to learning was not confined to books alone-it extended into every interaction she had and every life she touched. Ruby worked hard to make a better life for her family. She retired from Beacon Manufacturing. She is lovingly remembered in the countless ways she gave of herself to others through acts of kindness, words of encouragement, and joyful presence. She was a devoted mother to her sons, Chuck and Stewart Craig and daughters, Robin "Bright" and Michelle "Mulvey". Her love extended across generations to include grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, as well as to her late brothers and sisters. She will be missed by her sister Barbara Harrison and forever loved by Joyce Norton and nieces and nephews, and countless others who cherish her as their mother figure and mentor. Ruby was preceded in death by her beloved husband William A. Craig; her caring aunt and uncle Grace and Jess Talton; siblings Jimmy Morris, Ray Norton, Cora Lee Chandler, and Bonnie Talton. A woman of deep faith, Ruby dedicated herself daily to spiritual reflection through devotionals. She sought wisdom in God's word and lived each day as an opportunity for growth-spiritual, emotional, and intellectual. Her ever growing relationship with Jesus was central to her life's journey. Ruby found joy in the simple pleasures: laughing with loved ones, tending to her garden, cooking and collecting cookbooks and the like, marveling at beautiful sunsets, doting on babies and furry companions alike. Nature's beauty spoke to her soul as did the presence of family and friends who gathered around her table and bedside in loving and healing presence. Those who knew Ruby will remember her for her loving presence-gentle yet strong-her compassion without condition, her inclusive heart that welcomed all. She had a gift for seeing the good in others and offered herself freely with grace and humility. Her sense of humor brought lightness even during difficult times. In her final months-and especially in her final days-Ruby often repeated the words: "This is a Healing Time." These words now echo as both comfort and legacy-a reminder of the peace she longed for and carried within herself and shared so freely with others. May Ruby's memory be a guiding light for all who knew her-a testament to kindness lived fully and love given freely. A Celebration of Life will be held on September 3, 2025, from 02:00 to 02:30 PM at Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery 962 Old US Hwy 70. Celebration of Life Reception & Memorial Garden Internment will take place at St James Episcopal Church in Black Mountain following this service. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ruby Talton Craig, please visit our floral store.