Reuben Tisdale

Reuben Leroy Tisdale, affectionately known as "Ruby" or "Rube," was born September 4, 1941, in Gilliam, Missouri to Ruben Leroy Tisdel and Inez Geraldine Jackson. He was the fourth born of six children.
He joined St. Luke AME Church in Salisbury, Missouri at an early age. Several Pastors served while Reuben attended St. Luke. In 1997-2003 Pastor Eraina Aseme was assigned to serve as Pastor, and Reuben was instrumental in the witness of the church being involved and active in the community. During this time, he served in various church office positions such as Steward Pro Tem, Trustee, Treasurer and was a member of the Finance Committee. He even provided building maintenance and kept the lawn mowed and trimmed. Pastor Aseme describes Reuben as a "born leader." He remained at St. Luke's until it closed. He later became a member of the Open Door Christian Church in Brunswick, Missouri where he remained until his passing.
Reuben attended Lincoln Elementary School in Salisbury. Upon the integration of segregated schools, he entered Salisbury High School. It was there where he honed his basketball skills as a member of the high school basketball team.
In 1959, Reuben married Annia Lee Tooley and to this union their daughter was born, whom they refer to as their "Heart."
Reuben worked several jobs after high school, but his career began in 1967. He began work at SEMCO Incorporated where he started as a basic laborer. After several years of hard work and determination, he became an apprentice, then successfully moved on to earn the title Journeyman Sheet Metal Worker. He eventually retired from SEMCO in March 2000 after 33 years of loyal service.
After his SEMCO retirement, he was not finished. Reuben began a new venture as he started a lawn care business. On May 27, 2004, he opened his shop, A1 Lawn Care. He was dedicated to his business and his customers until the end.
Reuben was involved in many organizations in Salisbury. He was a Scoutmaster in the 1970's and 1980's. He served as Alderman for Ward 1 from June 2000 to April 2010. He was a member of the Lions Club and a volunteer firefighter.
He was also a Freemason with the title of Past Master of Dalton Pride Lodge F&AM Prince Hall Affiliated in Dalton, Missouri. Reuben later became a member of Rising Sun Lodge F&AM Prince Hall Affiliated in Columbia, Missouri.
Reuben was an avid sportsman and enjoyed a multitude of sports. He organized, coached and played on basketball, softball and bowling teams. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing.
On Sunday, July 27th, Reuben passed on into eternal rest. He is preceded in death by his father Ruben Tisdel and his mother Inez Jackson; his two brothers, Raymond Jackson and Roy "Tick" Miller; his two sisters, Vaughncille Hayes and Margaret Jackson. He is survived by his wife, Annia Tisdale; his daughter, Kennetha "Nita" Tisdale; his sister, Janet Gail Jackson; his grandson, Jordan R. Tisdale-Brown; his sister-in-law, Dora Jane Miller; his cousin who he called sister, Kaye Davis; and his cousin, Janice McDaniel. He is also survived by his nieces: Carla Hayes, Madeline (Larry) Yancey, Ginger Miller, Rana Hayes, Lisa (Andale) Gross and Gina Glasgow; his nephews: Jeffery Hayes, Jerry Hayes, Charles Miller, Derwin (Lesha) Glasgow and Jeremy Jackson; a host of great nieces, great nephews, other relatives, church members and dear friends.
Visitation will be Saturday, August 9, 2025 from 2-4:00 pm at Summerville Funeral Home. A masonic service will be held on Sunday, August 10, 2025 at 1:40 pm with funeral service following at 2:00 pm at Summerville Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Salisbury City Cemetery.