Ruby Inez Gillespie Howard

Ruby Inez Howard, 84, of Seneca, SC, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on August 9, 2025.

Born in Pickens, South Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Bluford and Emma Gillespie, and the sister of the late Patricia Ann Dyar. Ruby’s life was a reflection of her deep faith, quiet strength, and unconditional love for her family. Ruby had a heart for God, a deep love for her family, and a soft spot for a good laugh. And if you knew her, you knew one thing for sure—on game day, she was wearing orange and cheering on her beloved Clemson Tigers like it was a holy ritual.

She is survived by her children, Greg Kreitz (Patricia), Andy Kreitz (Evie), and daughter Sandra Smith; her grandchildren, Zeke Smith (Nick), Lynn Underwood (Brannon), Brian Swafford (Tia); and her great-grandchildren, Austin, Trenton, and Ashlynn Underwood, and Reagan Swafford. She will also be lovingly remembered by her cousin Roger Piche, her dear friend Sarah Paul, and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family.

The family will host a memorial service to celebrate Inez’s life on Saturday, September 6th at 1:00 p.m. at Refuge Baptist Church in Central, SC. The family will receive friends immediately following the service in the church fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Oconee Memorial Hospital Foundation, Hospice of the Foothills, 298 Memorial Drive, Seneca, SC 29672.

Visit RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home & Cremations, Central-Clemson Commons.