Ruby Box

JONESBORO - Ruby Joyce Box, age 94, of Jonesboro, passed away peacefully Tuesday, Dec. 23, in her daughter's home surrounded by family. She was born Aug. 18, 1931, in Lake City, Arkansas. Joyce was beloved by all who knew her, and she was irrefutably kind and patient to stranger and friend alike. She found her life's fulfillment teaching fifth grade at Valley View and church. She had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and never stopped reading and learning.

Joyce was a lifelong active member of the United Methodist Church, attending Lakeview, Huntington Avenue, and finally Pocahontas United Methodist Church. She and her beloved husband, Robert, enjoyed golf trips with good friends, traveling overseas, and spending time with family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband of 71 years, Robert; son, Bobby Box; daughter, Becky Baker; granddaughter, Shea Helms; nephew, Fred Box; and sisters Gail Gibson and Ann Garner.

She is survived by her daughter, Brenda (Ronnie) Forthmon; grandson, Derek Pike; granddaughter, Alison Pike; great-grandson, Jace Pike; great granddaughters Ava Helms, Lillie Pike, and Dani Pike; nephews Gregg (Sheila) Garner, Ted (Cathy) Rogers, and Gene (Robin) Rogers; and niece Terry Rogers

The visitation will be held from 1-2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025 at Emerson Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 2 pm with burial following the service at Jonesboro Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please send any memorial donations in her name to Habitat For Humanity at 404 W Walnut St, Benton, AR, 72015 (habitatsalinecounty.com), or Pocahontas United Methodist Church at 400 N Thomasville St, Pocahontas, Arkansas, 72455.