Ruby Lee Byrd

Holding the hands of her Son and Daughter, Ruby slipped peacefully into the loving arms of her Lord to join her cherished parents, Mr. Roby L. Wagner and Ruby A. Wagner, whom she spoke of so often. Also preceding her was her husband Mr. Francis O. Byrd, and her sister, Mrs. Susan Conrad. Ruby graduated from RJ Reynolds High School and later had a long career with Sears, where she enjoyed many endearing friendships. Although widowed early, she continued to live a very happy active life, from dancing at Arthur Murray Studios, to cruising the Bahamas, especially the Greek Isles. Ruby loved the beach, and spent many summers there, with her parents, children, sister and friends. Later in life, ladies beach trips, with her cousins, sister and niece, to her son’s beach front home, with laughter, cards, board games and walks on the beach, were memorable and enjoyable times. She made many trips to upstate New York to visit her daughter, where she enjoyed yachting on the lakes and canals and going to plays in Canada and New York City. Ruby adored her dogs and cats, of which she had many. She was the ultimate caregiver. She loved children and was always available to sit for grandchildren or her pastor’s children. She was always the first one at the bedside of someone sick, with a bowl of homemade soup or fresh fruit. She cared for both her Mother and Father until their passing. Her favorite activity was large family dinners, especially around holidays. Often there would be outside guests who were friends of the children, whose own family’s lived far away. They were always welcome in her home. Ruby was first and foremost a southern Lady. She was the consummate cook of the best comfort food anyone could ever ask for. And, no one could ever forget “Mama Byrd’s Biscuits”!

Ruby moved to Greensboro, to be closer to her daughter, and then due to a fall, resided at a Rehab facility. While there, the staff said she was the most delightful and sweet lady they had ever had the pleasure of caring for. Judy was able to visit on a daily basis and gave the love and attention Mother so deserved.

Surviving Ruby is son Michael Byrd (Vickie), daughter Judy Yoffa (fiancé, Jim Stratton), three Grandchildren, six Great Grandchildren. Also very special Niece, Melinda Beauchamp (Chris) and special Nephew Tony Conrad, special Great Niece Amanda ,Great Nephews Alec and Conrad, whose visits and calls were so very much appreciated and loved by Mother and the family.

Ruby loved the Baptist faith but also the Moravian faith as well. The different traditions of the Moravian services had great meaning to Mother. The family wishes to thank New Philadelphia for their continuing to minister to Mother and providing literature for her to read which she so loved and enjoyed. A private graveside service for family and close friends will be held at New Philadelphia Moravian Church on Wednesday, March 2th. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to New Philadelphia Moravian Church, 4440 Country Club Rd., Winston-Salem, NC 27104.

Online condolences may be made at www.frankvogler&sons. com