Ruby E. Luster-Smith

Ruby Edna Luster-Smith was born to the union of Charles Elias and Addie Lilly King on March 6, 1926. This new baby arrived in Natchez, in the great state of Mississippi, to join three other siblings. She would later experience the arrival of her little brother, whom she grew to love dearly.

Ruby grew up as a feisty little girl. She was a risk-taker at an early age, a force to reckon with. She was always an independent-thinker and, for that, sometimes met with opposition from her parents, aunts and uncles, who were instrumental in guiding her in the right direction.

During her formative years, she attended schools in Natchez and worked faithfully in the family caf�'©. Her family could count on her to follow through in assisting with family chores at home. She relished the moments spent with her siblings and cousins on a daily basis, strengthening their close bond.

Following the family tradition, she embraced the career of teaching children at the country school for a period of time. But this was not her life's desire; she loved the thought of entering into the field of nursing, a desire which eventually came to fruition later in her life.

Ruby became engaged and married Rufus Luster on July 13, 1944. Several years later she became the mother of four children: three daughters and a son.

While Ruby was raised in a godly family, she felt the need to know more of what God had to offer. She was blessed to live in the home of Bishop and Sis. A.D. Williams, where she dedicated her life to Christ. Her husband later came to know and accept Christ as well, as her godly living captured his attention.

Continuing in the path of Christ, Ruby found herself becoming a Pastor's wife. That was a new and unexpected chapter in her life. Accepting God's call to support and assist her husband was not easy. She soon found that her trust in God rose to the top of her though processes in doing his will. She made sacrifices in her life to ensure that the Gospel of Peace would flourish throughout the communities in which she and her family lived. This chapter of life ended May 16, 1974, when the Lord called Pastor Luster to his heavenly home. But she continued her involvement in the ministry of Bethany Church.

In 1980, Ruby was blessed to meet and marry Wheaton Smith, Jr. She enjoyed 34 years with him as her confidant and supporter in whatever she wanted to accomplish. Together they became the inspiration for all who watched them blossom as a true couple of God.

As the designated mother of the Bethany Church, she has been a blessing to all of the members in the congregation. She has been a great example to ministers, pastors, and missionaries alike as she patiently shared life principles with those who would listen. Her home was a beacon of love, honor, and respect; open to all. She served in many capacities in the church, both locally and nationally. As she grew older, her value only increased. All are better for having known and loved Mother Smith.

Mother Smith leaves to cherish her precious memory: her husband Wheaton Smith, Jr.; children Nadine Luster-Poe, Sharon Luster-Collins, Anita Luster, and Ivon Luster; grandchildren Cecil Collins III, Bentley Collins, Shaphan Collins, and Nolan Luster; great-granddaughter Nachelle Luster. Her other beloved children include Gladys Thomas, Wheaton Smith III, Tilden Smith, Karen Crawford, and Rita Brown; fifteen grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren. Her siblings include a sister Mary G. Stanton and brothers Artee King, Robert King, Joseph King, and Kyle Cubie. She is survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins across the country. She was also blessed with a great and treasured extended church family, both locally and nationally, and across denominational lines.

Ruby's spirit, unconditional love, strength, and her smile will be missed, but will be remembered forever.