Ruby Dell Chester-Kirbow

Ruby Dell Chester-Kirbow, lovingly known as Dell, was born in Evergreen, Alabama in 1936. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dewey Sr. and Janie, and six siblings: Earnest, Dempsey, Bertie, Vonceil, Annette, and Dewey Jr.

Dell is survived by her devoted children: daughter Joanna and her husband David, along with beloved granddaughter Isabella of Plano, Texas; daughter Rebecca of Houston; and son James of Victoria.

As a young woman, Dell moved to Texas, where she began her career working at a local drugstore in Nederland. She quickly became known for her warmth and friendliness, building lasting friendships and beginning her family. Despite settling in Texas, her heart always remained connected to her roots in Alabama, and she made frequent trips back to Evergreen for family reunions and cherished time spent in Gulf Shores.

Dell enjoyed a long and fulfilling career at Waldenbooks in Beaumont before retiring to Double D Ranch in Vidor with J.D. In retirement, she found joy in gardening, cooking, baking, and hosting holiday gatherings that brought together an ever-growing circle of family and friends. A passionate reader, Dell spent time reading and collecting books. Dell also loved sharing stories from her childhood and memories of her beloved hometown.

In her later years, Dell began a beautiful new chapter with Clyde Kirbow, whose companionship brought renewed joy and laughter into her life. Together, they created treasured memories with the Kirbow family and their many friends.

Dell will be remembered most for her boundless love for family, her deep loyalty to friends, and her welcoming spirit. She treated everyone as family, and her radiant smile lit up the driveway whenever loved ones arrived.

Her legacy of warmth, kindness, and storytelling will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Funeral service will be 10 am, Friday August 1, 2025 at Central Baptist Church in Kirbyville with burial at Davis cemetery. Visitation will begin at 9 am prior to service.