Ruby Esther Ward

Ruby Esther Ward
1924 ~ 2015
Ruby Esther Ward, our beautiful, strong mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, age 91, passed away peacefully at her home on November 25, 2015. Ruby was surrounded by her family.
Ruby was born to Ted and Esther King on February 21, 1924 in Mountain Home, Idaho. Ruby lived in Little Valley Idaho for 18 years. During that time she attended a one room schoolhouse for 8 years and graduated from Bruneau High School in May 1942. One of her fondest memories was riding her horse Pal to school. She loved all kinds of animals.
Ruby went on to Seattle after graduation and worked for Boeing Aircraft as "Ruby the Riveter" until the end of World War Two in 1945. Ruby then returned to Boise and was employed by JJ Newberrys retail store.
Ruby married Clarence Ward on August 24, 1947. They built their first home in Boise and then moved to various locations to pursue farm life. They welcomed 5 children to the family. Donna, Shirley, Teresa (husband Ed), Jim and Debbie. Ruby was a stay at home mom who also managed to work the family farm which included dairy & beef cattle, horses, chickens, rabbits, pigs and any other animal that found its way to the place. She loved Thanksgiving and having her entire family by her side as she prepared a delicious meal without the use of one single recipe book.
Ruby has many grandchildren and great grandchildren whom she loved with all her heart. She deeply touched the lives of each of them. She will be fondly remembered by her grandchildren Nikki, Sheri (husband Rene'), Chris (husband Peter), Greg, Melissa (husband Dan), Ryan and Kevin. Her greatgrandchildren are richer for having had her in their lives; Peta and Ely (Nikki), Chloe and Isabella (Sheri), Emma and Zachary (Chris).
Ruby was preceded in death by her husband Clarence, her grandson Greg, her sisters Thelma, Dorothy, Bette, Hope, and Bobby. She is survived by her sister Bonnie.
We would like to thank the caring staff of Heart N Home Hospice for their support in Ruby's final year. A private family gathering to celebrate Ruby's life was held on Monday, November 30, 2015. In remembrance of Ruby, you are welcome to make a donation in her name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Mom,
You are the matriarch of this family. Your hard work ethic is something we have all inherited. We know no one who is stronger physically and emotionally as you. You put us first and made sure we were all taken care of even through the hard times. This strength is what gave us 91 years with you. You will be missed by all your family but never ever forgotten. We love you!!