Ruby J. Arrington

Ruby J. Arrington, a cherished pillar of the Massillon community, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on July 21, 1935, in Massillon to the late Benjamin and Jean (Pulliam) Harper, Ruby lived a life filled with purpose, kindness, and unwavering dedication to those around her. She was reunited in eternity with her beloved husband, Richard (R.C.) Arrington, whom she treasured deeply.

A woman of remarkable talents and accomplishments, Ruby was an avid storyteller, historian, and beacon of wisdom in her family. She delighted in sharing lessons passed down from her parents, ensuring that their legacy remained alive through the generations. Ruby was shaped by the vibrant neighborhood of “The Bottoms,” where she learned the value of resilience, community, and giving back.

As a correspondent for the Ohio Informer, Vice President of the Young Women’s Culture Society, and President of the Varrick Christian Endeavor, she demonstrated her passion for community involvement. Through her work with the Urban League and her participation in the Begin-A-New Tutorial Program, Ruby made a lasting impact on countless lives, helping students strengthen their basic math and reading skills.

Ruby's career journey was as diverse as her interests. From working at Perry Rubber to her time in the catering department at Portage Pass Country Club, she approached each role with diligence. Her contributions did not go unnoticed, she received an Award of Recognition from the Canton Akron Culinary Association for her selfless service and dedication to the culinary profession. However, one of her most fulfilling positions was serving as a hall monitor and study hall supervisor at Washington High School for over 40 years. Her dedication was so profound that a study hall was named in her honor, a testament to the respect and admiration she earned from students and faculty alike.

Her devotion to faith was equally inspiring. Ruby was a dedicated member of St. James AME for nearly 70 years, where she found spiritual fulfillment and a close-knit community of friends and loved ones.

Ruby leaves behind a legacy of love and commitment to family. She is survived by her nephews D’Andre Harper, Larry Harper, and Jay Harper; nieces Bernadine Davis, Sherry Wilson, Rosalind Nesbitt, Denise Woodson, Bonnie Harper, and Tracy Harper; stepchildren Meredith Arrington, Renee Reynolds, Cheryl Martin, Vickie Carrington, and Richard Reynolds; special niece and nephew Gia, Nick, and Chessie Hathaway; dear cousins John and Mary Blunt; and a host of extended family and friends. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her lessons, laughter, and spirit will live on in those fortunate enough to have known her.

In addition to her loving husband and parents, Ruby was preceded in death by her brothers Benjamin, Leroy, Harold, and Howard Harper, and sisters Betty Harper and Beverly Harper.

As we honor and celebrate Ruby’s extraordinary life, may we carry forward her legacy of kindness, strength, and storytelling.

Visitation will take place on Thursday, May 15, 2025, from 4:00 - 7:00 PM, at the Paquelet Funeral Home, 1100 Wales Rd. NE, Massillon, OH 44646. Visitation will also be held on Friday, May 16, 2025, from 10:30 - 11:30 AM, at the St. James AME Zion Church, 209 2nd. St. SW, Massillon, OH 44646, where funeral services will promptly follow at 11:30 AM. Interment will immediately follow in Oakwood Cemetery. 

To leave a condolence for the family or to share a memory of Ruby, please visit the online guestbook.