Ruby Marie McFarland

In loving memory of Ruby Marie McFarland (1930-2024).

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ruby McFarland, a cherished mother, grandmother, and friend who entered rest on Thursday, September 12, 2024, in Gig Harbor, Washington. She was 94 years old.

Ruby was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Jim, as well as her son-in-law, Bob Gunn. She is survived by her three loving children: Reggie McFarland (Chris) from Hayden, Idaho. Gaye Jacobs (Tom) from Gig Harbor, Washington, and Kelly Gunn from Spokane, Washington. Ruby also leaves behind nine grandchildren, each of whom she held dear to her heart: Josh Jacobs (Kelsy), Rebecca Brown (Eric), Andy Jacobs (Charmaine), J. James McFarland (Mary), Tausha McKernan (Aaron), Courtney Carlone (Nick), Mirinda Lisenbey (Jesse), Jordan Dennis (Austin), and Amanda McFarland. In addition, she was blessed with twenty great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy.

Born in DeSmet, South Dakota in 1930, Ruby was the daughter of Willam and Ruth Torrence. At the age of 14, her family moved to Oman, Washington where Ruby graduated from Omak High School. Soon after graduation, she married Jim McFarland, and they began their family in Tonasket, where Ruby embraced the role of homemaker with love and dedication. She made her home a sanctuary of rest, warmth and unconditional love for her family. Ruby was an ever-present figure in her children's lives, leading Cub Scouts and Camp Fire Girls volunteering in class rooms, and instilling in them the values of kindness, moral principles, and forgiveness.

Ruby and Jim later returned to Omak, where they opened a State Farm Insurance agency on Main Street. She was an active member of the Nazarene Church on Elmway, and led bible studies in her home. Above all, Ruby cherished her role as a grandmother, spending countless joyous hours with her grandchildren and creating lasting memories at their beloved Crawfish Lake cabin, a place of laughter and togetherness.

A woman of many accomplishments, Ruby achieved her dream of becoming a pilot later in life and enjoyed soaring the skies. She was also passionate about golf and took every chance to play. An avid art lover, Ruby created several masterpieces, from stunning paintings to exquisite dried flower arrangements and vibrant gardens.

As we remember Ruby, we hold onto the beautiful truth: "Mothers hold their children's hands for a while, but their hearts forever.

A burial service in honor of Ruby McFarland will take place on September 21 at 2 p.m. at Okanogan Valley Memorial Gardens Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest. Pastor Dave lamb will be officiating.

In this time of grief, we celebrate the wonderful life Ruby led and the incredible legacy of love and kindness she leaves behind.