It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of Ruby Wood, who at remarkable age of 102, left this world December 10, 2024 at Wellsville Health and Rehabilitation Center in Wellsville, Kansas. Born on December 19, 1921, in Lawrence, Kansas, to Tom and Mamie Gibson.
Ruby was united in marriage to Harry M. Wood, Jr., on June 14, 1939. Together, they built a warm and loving home for their two sons, Larry and Tommy. Though the family moved often, Ruby ensured that her boys created meaningful memories, wherever life took them.
Over her extraordinary 102 years, Ruby witnessed and experienced countless moments that shaped her life. Notably, she had the rare privilege of seeing Franklin Delano Roosevelt arrive in Ottawa by train, an event she recalled with pride. Ruby nurtured her passions, from gardening and canning to caring for her chickens and diving into the romantic worlds found in novels. A talented artist, she delighted her family with beautiful paintings on saw blades, leaving behind a legacy of creativity. Ruby was also a loving, caring mother to her many animals. Riding her horses was something that brought her great joy. She would try to ride and spend time with her horses as much as possible.
Besides raising her family, Ruby was also able to work outside the home. She was employed with the Peculiar School District as a Head Cook in the early 60’s. After moving to Ottawa, she was employed at Platner Industries making plastic combs.
Ruby loved spending time with her family, and her joy was infectious. Whether shopping with her sister Betty or embarking on treasure hunts at garage sales with her grandson Tommy LeRoy and granddaughter Kelly, her laughter and spirit were present in every moment shared.
Ruby is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Harry, and her siblings: Christine Potter, Cathy McCullum, Betty Houdashelt, Hoot Gibson, and Harry Gibson. She is lovingly remembered by her sons, Larry (Jean Ann) and Tommy (Terry) Wood, as well as her grandchildren, Tommy Leroy Wood (Amber) and Kelly Michelle Woehrle (Chris Mallon), who brought her immense joy. Her great-grandchildren, Hudson, Tucker, and Greyson Wood, along with Ruby and John Woehrle, filled her heart with love. She is also survived by her sisters Nancy Strawder and Jean Clayton (Marvin).
Ruby’s warmth, love, and vivacious spirit have left an indelible mark on all who knew her. A graveside service will take place on December 18, 2024, at 2 p.m. at Walnut Creek Cemetery in Wellsville, Kansas, where family and friends will come together to celebrate her remarkable life. In our hearts, Ruby will always be cherished, her memory living on through the countless lives she touched.
