Ruby Faye Stevens Toy

Ruby Faye Stevens Toy, age 88, passed away peacefully at the home of her daughter and caretaker on Sunday, March 29, 2026 in Jackson, Kentucky. Born on August 18, 1937 in Magoffin County, Kentucky, Ruby lived a remarkable life filled with love, resilience, and dedication to her family and community.

Ruby was the wife of Dale Toy and the cherished mother of Stanley Stevens (Tina), Jimmy Stevens, George Stevens (Vicki), Wilma Stevens and Debbie Noble (Doug). Ruby was also a proud grandmother to ten grandchildren; a great-grandmother to ten great grandchildren and a great-great-grandmother to two great great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Roscoe and Dora (Patrick) Arnett; the father of her children, Claude Stevens; her daughter, Della Mae Stevens; her grandson, Dustin Stevens; her brothers Woodford Arnett, Mitchell Arnett, Junior Arnett, Marcus Arnett, Marvin Arnett, Hager Arnett, Melvin Arnett, and Lewis Arnett; and her sisters Opal (Arizona) Church and Dorothy Mae Jackson.

From an early age, Ruby understood the value of hard work. Her green thumb was legendary-she could grow virtually anything in her garden. Even into her 80s, she tended to her garden with care and dedication, canning food to ensure her family was always well-stocked. This passion for gardening was something she passed on to her grandsons, Todd and Trey. Ruby's talents extended far beyond gardening; she was an intelligent woman with a wide range of skills. As a young woman living in Dayton, Ohio, she managed apartment buildings and was known for riding around the lot on a scooter.

Ruby had a deep appreciation for history and antiques. She worked at the Breathitt County Museum and enjoyed teaching children about history as well as arts and crafts. Her creativity shone through in her sewing-she crafted beautiful quilts that were treasured by those who received them. Ruby also had a gift for cooking; no one ever left her home hungry. She prepared large meals with love and always ensured everyone else was served before sitting down herself. Ruby made the most delicious chocolate fudge. Her fried chicken was especially memorable during family picnics at Cave Run Lake.

Athletic and vibrant in her younger years, Ruby excelled as a softball player. She also loved music and dancing-especially when her grandson, Wesley played the guitar-and often sang along with joy. Ruby worked at the Breathitt County Courthouse where she was admired by coworkers for her impeccable style and perfectly coiffed hair.

Ruby's love for her grandchildren was boundless. One particularly cherished memory involved her grandson Alex when he was in kindergarten. On a stormy day when Alex didn't want to go to school, Ruby lovingly declared, "Let that baby stay home," and spent the day watching *The Wizard of Oz* with him-a moment he would never forget.

In 1998, Ruby suffered a stroke that left her paralyzed. Despite doctors' grim prognosis that she would not walk again, Ruby's unwavering faith carried her through a miraculous recovery. She regained mobility and continued to live life with grace and determination. Her strong faith remained central to her life-a source of strength that inspired those around her.

Visitation for Ruby is scheduled to be held Tuesday, March 31, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Breathitt Funeral Home with the funeral service scheduled for Wednesday, April 1, at 1:00 PM with Gary Bellamy officiating.

Burial will follow in the Holbrook Cemetery at Hunting Creek with Alex Noble, Wes Noble, Todd Noble, Trey Noble, Mike Arnett and Doug Noble serving as pallbearers.

Ruby will be remembered for her sweet disposition, warm hugs, loving smile, and kind personality that touched everyone who knew her. To honor Ruby's memory and spirit of faithfulness, the family invites you to reflect on Isaiah 55:8-9:

May Ruby Faye Stevens Toy's memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.

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