Ruby Grace Fayard

Ruby Grace Fayard (Alliston), a lifelong matriarch of family, faith, and community, passed away on January 12, 2026, in Gautier, Mississippi. She was born in Okaloosa County, Florida, on March 12, 1927—though her birth certificate records April 12, a discrepancy attributed to the era’s old-school midwife practices. Census records throughout her life consistently reflected March 12, the date her family always recognized as her true birthday.

Ruby was preceded in death by her parents, John Sr. and Lucy Alliston; her sisters Fay, Evelyn, Dora Mae, Irene, Mary , Lillie; her brothers John Jr., James, George, and Jimmy; and two of her children Lucy DiNero and Kenneth Fayard. She was previously married to the late Earl Fayard Sr., with whom she shared her children.

She is survived by her children, Earl Fayard Jr. and Alison Hill (Larry IV); her grandchildren Keely Newman, Karrie Ann Nelson, Bethany Fayard, Clete DiNero, Joshua Hill, Nathan Fayard, Marion Hill V, Jennifer Williams, Sean Hill, and Jennifer Blackwell; her brother Albert Alliston, as well as numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family.

For decades, Ruby ran the market of the family business, Ocean Springs Seafood, where she became well known throughout the community. Her seafood gumbo and crab-stuffed potatoes were legendary and became beloved family staples in Ocean Springs. Many customers became friends over the years, and her presence left a lasting mark on the local seafood industry.

Ruby lived life fully. She traveled the world with a close-knit group of lady friends and treasured shopping trips with her children and, later, her grandchildren. Her home was always alive with laughter—grandchildren swimming in her pool, listening to her stories, and helping her make homemade jams and fresh beignets.

A woman of deep faith, Ruby was a faithful and active member of Glad Tidings Assembly of God Church in Ocean Springs until she could no longer attend services. She ensured her children and grandchildren were raised in the church, introduced to her faith, and baptized. As the daughter of a traveling non-denominational minister, faith was a cornerstone of her life and guided her values, generosity, and strength.

The family gratefully acknowledges the care and compassion shown to Ruby by Yong Abraham, her longtime caretaker; Dr. Chris Shelby and the staff at North Bay Medical; the caregivers at River Chase Village; and the Deaconess Hospice team. Your kindness and dedication will always be remembered.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, from 10 am - 11 am, with an 11 am funeral service , all at The Church, 7909 Ocean Springs Road, Ocean Springs. After the service a reception will be held at The Church.    In keeping with Ruby’s love of flowers, all arrangements may be sent to The Church. 

Bradford O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Ruby Grace Fayard.