Ruby D. Baker

Born September 23, 1931 to Earl Luther and Mary Margaret Studer, Ruby genuinely cared for others and touched the lives of all who knew her.

She married Robert L. Baker in 1953 and lived the military life, raising two loving children and having more adventures than anyone could count. She was fearless, brave, strong, a woman of faith, and always looked for the best in everyone. She loved people and people loved her. She was dedicated to her family and to helping others.

She was a graduate of Navarre High School and began studies in nursing before getting married and moving across the country. Prior to her marriage she worked in a soda fountain, portrait studio (as a model), bakery, steel mill, and was the assistant for two town doctors. She was a Miss America contestant and vocalist, singing with a band, a quartet, and the USO. She was a soloist, performing a wide range of music for churches and weddings. Later she became a realtor and landscaper, although she continued to model well into her 60’s. She was politically active as a lobbyist in Washington DC, instrumental in getting military ex-spouses benefits they deserved. She was president of the National Wives’ club in Washington, DC, entertained foreign dignitaries, and also worked retail.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Luke and Margaret Studer, and her sister Rhea Jean Bushman.She is survived by her children, Deborah Baker, Bryan Baker and his wife Susan, and her grandchildren, Lauryn, Kaitlyn, and Luke Baker.

Her visitation hours will be at Porter Loring North (2102 N Loop 1604 E) from 2:00 – 4:00 pm on Sunday, September 10, 2023, with her funeral being held the next day, Monday, September 11th at 2:00pm in the chapel at Porter Loring North. She will be interred at the Baker family plot in Berryville, Arkansas. If you would like to send flowers, Ruby’s favorites were red and white carnations.

Ruby loved deep, rich, bright colors, so the family suggests wearing a splash of bright color. Ruby’s favorite colors were red, fuschia (hot pink) and turquoise.

Rubymania!, her super birthday celebration is in its fifth year and will still be held in memory of her on Saturday, September 23rd

To view the recording of the service please click here.