Ruby Lee Hollowell

Ruby Lee (Page) Hollowell was born on July 24, 1930, in Greensboro, Alabama to Mel Lee (Coleman) Page and Josh Page. Born into a time of both hardship and hope, Ruby’s early years were shaped by the post-Reconstruction era’s promises and struggles. Like many African American families seeking new opportunities and a better life, her family became part of the Great Migration—a movement that saw millions leave the Deep South in search of economic security and freedom. The Page family first relocated to Mann, West Virginia, drawn by coal mining jobs that fueled the nation’s industrial rise, and later settled in Columbus, Ohio, where the booming automotive industry and federal employment offered fresh hope and stability. With each move, Ruby carried forward the strength of her ancestors, the warmth of Southern roots, and the unwavering belief in a brighter future. 

A lifelong member of Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, Ruby raised her children in the church alongside her mother and siblings. She sang in the choir, served faithfully while participating in many church programs over the years. Ruby’s commitment to her faith was unwavering—she believed deeply in ensuring that her children and grandchildren experienced the full blessing of Christian life through baptisms, christenings, and consistent spiritual guidance. Her belief in legacy extended beyond worship: she actively supported Mt. Olivet’s Credit Union, encouraging her family to build generational wealth and practice financial stewardship through faith-based economic empowerment. 

Ruby was proud to witness and grow spiritually under three generations of Mt. Olivet pastors: Pastor H. Beecher Hicks, Pastor Charles E. Booth, and Rev. Dr. Eugene L. Gibson, Jr. 

She attended East High School, and later, as a single mother of six children, courageously pursued higher education during a time when few women, especially Black women, took that path. In her early 40s, Ruby enrolled at The Ohio State University, becoming part of a trailblazing program created through the Office of Minority Affairs (OMA), which emerged from the student-led movements for racial equity in the late 1960s and early '70s. With support from the OMA and Dr. Frank W. Hale, Jr., Ruby earned her Bachelor of Science in Social Work with honors—a feat that still inspires her family to this day. 

Her passion for social justice and community empowerment carried through her professional life. Ruby worked as a counselor, state inspector, and later as an Equal Opportunity Specialist and Contract Buyer at DSCC (Defense Supply Center, Columbus). Her work also took her to Orlando, Florida, where she lived for over a decade, continued her service in federal roles, and created lasting memories for her family. Many recall her time in Florida as a golden period full of reunions, laughter, and unforgettable family trips to Disney World and Florida’s coasts. 

When she returned to Columbus in the early 2000s, Ruby stepped more fully into her role as the family matriarch. In the wake of losing her beloved husband, Marvin E. Hollowell, she remained a pillar of strength and grace. Firm in her values, deeply spiritual, and fiercely loyal, Ruby led her family with wisdom, humor, discipline, and unconditional love. She showed up time and time again, rooted in Christ and full of purpose. 

Ruby is preceded in death by her husband, Marvin E. Hollowell, her youngest daughter, Pamela Kunie Ford, and her great-grandson, Torian Bailey. She is also preceded in death by five siblings, Laura, Willie Lee, Clyde, Quindell, and Geneva. 

She is survived by her children: Rondal (Babette) Davis, Denise (Douglas) Moffett, CarrMel Ford (Carl) White, Steven F. Ford, and Kitty E. Holliman. She loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren dearly: Rondal (Tina) Davis, Kyle (Grace) Moffett, Dion (Sheri) Moffett, Marcie Davis, Louis Moffett, Ebony Davis, Shellie (Tito) Bailey, James Ford, Ruby N. White, Brooke Davis, Arthur (Maddie) Ford, Tyler Holliman, and Meliyah Holliman. Great-grandchildren: Nya, Alissya, Lydia Page, Torian, Shayla, Joshua, Jalesa, Khadera, Jamal, Preston, Angelle, Payton, Avory, Hendrix, Londyn, and Cali Rose. 

She will be dearly missed by many nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and longtime friends. Ruby will also be fondly remembered by her loving care assistant, Tonya Smith, whom she affectionately called "Whoop"

“Her children rise up and call her blessed.” – Proverbs 31:28