Mrs. Ruby Jeanne (Hightower) Wolford

Ruby was born the first of four children in Sallisaw, OK, in 1928 to parents Harvey and Pearl. Ruby’s family tree had many branches, but she was particularly proud of her Cherokee Native American heritage. Those descendants were removed from the Eastern US and driven on the infamous “Trail of Tears” to reservations in Indian Territory, which became the proud state of Oklahoma.

Ruby’s family of 6 and all of their meager earthly possessions crammed into a borrowed van and moved to Dallas for the promise of a better job. The family flourished with all siblings graduated, married, had children, and lived in the area. The closeness of this family remained a great joy in Ruby’s life.

Ruby had a crush on her family’s handsome paper boy who sped by each day with a dedication to his job that allowed not even a glance her way. An introduction was finally made and a love affair that lasted through a lifetime began. Ruby and Cliff Wolford were married in 1950. They had two beautiful and accomplished children, Sheri “Jamie” Lynn and Rebecca Joanne.

Cliff started as a tree trimmer for Dallas Power and Light and rose through the ranks by on- the-job learning, an impeccable work ethic, and by taking numerous courses after work hours. He retired as a degreed Master Electrician and supervised the building of numerous sub stations that were required to power the rapidly growing city.

Ruby was a dedicated housewife, keeping an impeccable residence and lawn, and helping Cliff with countless home improvements, additions, and side jobs to stretch the family income. When the kids were old enough, she worked at a family owned dry cleaners. Ruby’s friendly presence behind the desk was famous, and she treated every customer as if they were family.

Cliff was offered an early retirement in 1987 and gladly accepted. He and Ruby loved the fishing and seaside life in Corpus Christi, and had close family there. They bought a Corpus house and lived the good life of fishing retirees. Cliff was a dedicated runner, winning dozens of racing awards. Ruby supported his running hobby by attending all races and volunteering as a refreshment provider.

The crowning joy of Ruby’s life were grandchildren Shawn Jason, Jamie Lynn, and great grandchildren Brandon, Alex, and later arrival by Guardianship, Josh. Anyone who spent more than a minute with Ruby was treated to a summary of their accomplishments, charms, and got to view their latest pictures.

With Cliff’s health declining, Ruby and Cliff moved back to Dallas in 2011. Ruby was Cliff’s constant companion and 24/7 tireless caregiver until his passing in 2016.

Ruby’s charisma and friendliness caused her to be well known and loved by fellow residents and staff at her assisted living home. She never met a stranger, and was given the post of “Ambassador” of the facility. When prospective new residents visited, they were taken to Ruby’s room where she sang the praises of living there and proudly showed her impeccable room, pictures, and collections. Her residence honored her with a special memorial on 7/6/23.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.laurellanddallas.com for the Wolford family.