Beloved Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Sister, Aunt, and Friend

Ruby Lorene Jones, lovingly known as "Grandma Ruby," passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, leaving behind a legacy of unconditional love, strength, and warmth that touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Ruby was born on August 14, 1945, in the mountains of North Alabama, a place as strong and beautiful as the woman herself. Much like her favorite color, emerald green, Ruby was a true gem: vibrant, radiant, and full of life.

On January 5, 1962, she married the love of her life, Robert "Bob" Jones. Together, they built a life grounded in faith, devotion, and love, one that blossomed into a beautiful family tree with deep roots and countless branches.

Ruby was the proud and devoted mother of four children: Bobby (Debbie) Jones of East Prairie, MO; Tommy Jones (Tanya Holland) of Matthews, MO; Judy Tatum (Kevin Lee) of Anniston, MO; and Timmy (Tonya) Jones of East Prairie, Mo. She was also blessed with cherished daughters-in-law Janie Jones and Tracy Collins, and son-in-law Bill Tatum.

Ruby was the heart of a large and loving family, blessed with 16  grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great granddaughter. While there isn't enough space to name each grandchild, great-grandchild, sibling, niece, nephew, and dear friend, rest assured that Ruby held every one of them near and dear to her heart. Her love knew no limits and was unconditional.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Tom and Vester Guthrie; brothers, Franklin and Nathan Guthrie; sisters, Katherine Haley and Liz Wilson; and a precious great-great-grandson born sleeping, Baby Oliver.

Ruby was the definition of incredible patience and loving warmth. She taught Sunday school, led Scout troops, lent a helping hand to anyone in need, and grew a garden as beautiful as her spirit. Her home was a place of joy and creativity,  from mud pies in the backyard to flour fights while making dumplings or cookies in the kitchen. She allowed life to be messy, magical, and full of love. Her home was more than just four walls; it was a sanctuary filled with love, laughter, wisdom, and stories passed down from generation to generation and the absolute best place to take a nap. Her door was always open, her heart even more so. Her spirit lives on in the lives she nurtured, the traditions she created, and the love she so freely gave.

She wasn't just a mother or a grandmother; she was the heart of the family. She was the true matriarch, the glue, the guide, the grace that held us all together.  A listening ear, a comforting hug, a steady guide, and the kind of friend everyone hopes to have. Her laughter, her wisdom, and her emerald-colored soul will forever shine with every recipe, every word of encouragement, and every act of kindness shared through the lives of all who were blessed to know her. She will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and eternally loved.

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

Visitation will be held Friday, September 12, 2025, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Shelby Funeral Home in East Prairie, MO.

Visitation will resume Saturday, September 13, 2025, beginning at 11 a.m. until time of funeral service at 12:00 noon in the Shelby Chapel, with Bro. Steve Johnson, pastor of Victory Baptist Church in East Prairie, officiating.

Interment will follow in Dogwood Cemetery under the direction of Shelby Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be Davin Patrick, Connor Williams, Trent Martin, Levi Jones, Kasey Jones and Kevin Johnson.

Honorary pallbearers will be Tommy Jones, Timmy Jones, T.J. Jones, Bobby Jones, Kevin Lee, Clay Guthrie, Cripper Martin, Mike Mathis, Chandler Thomas, Ben Gammons,  Justin Selvy and Bill Tatum