Ruby Jewel Whitaker

Mrs. Ruby Jewel Whitaker, 81, died Sunday afternoon (October 30, 2022) at Hospice House Satilla.
She was a native of Colquitt, GA and had lived most of her life in Waycross, GA. She started her 34-year career with the Georgia Department of Vocational Rehabilitation, serving to provide resources to clients in Ware County for education and skills to begin active employment. She continued her career in financial management service with the Georgia Department of Public Health through Children's Medical Services, where she continued her service to families and children with special needs in the 16 county Southeast Health District. Her financial management skills and love of children and youth were evident in her work with the organization of the DAISY Clinic in Waycross, her work with children with special needs and her support of youth athletics in Ware County through the Ware County School System and Ware County Recreation Department.
She was the daughter of the late Dudley B. Goolsby, Sr. and Ruby Cato Goolsby. She was also preceded in death by her husband, John D. Whitaker, and her sister Martha Widner.
She is survived by her children, David Whitaker (Lauren) of Blackshear, GA, Donna Carol of Jarrell, TX, and Travis Bullock (Joanie) of Blackshear, GA; six grandchildren, Scarlett Rogers (Micheal), Cassidy Cothern, Megan Hersey, Courtney Matranga (Devan), Skylar Whitaker, and John David "J.D." Whitaker; eight great grandchildren, Summer Rogers, Aubree Rogers, Carson Hersey, Donovan Lopez, Bailey Cox, Bridget Cox, Jaxon Matranga, and Lenox Matranga; a sister, Peggy Sue Oyler (Vern) of Mountain Home, ID; a brother, Dudley B. Goolsby, Jr. (Clara) of Kissimmee, FL; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.
A funeral service will be held at 4 p.m. Friday (November 4, 2022) at the Music Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in Kettle Creek Cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday the hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
Sympathy may be expressed by signing the online obituary at www.musicfuneralhome.com.
Music Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.