Ruby excelled early in her life, and graduated from Camden High School, in Waverly. She later took classes at Perry Business School, in Brunswick.
Ruby married Richard Eugene Dukes, a veteran of World War II, during which Dick served aboard the battleship USS Alabama.
Ruby and Dick had three children, Richard Eugene Dukes Jr., Daryll Glenn Dukes (deceased) and Donna Kay Dukes (also deceased).
Ruby is survived by her five grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.
Ruby died peacefully on Aug. 15 at her home on Blythe Island, where she and Dick had lived since 1964. Dick passed away in 1988. Ruby was 98 years old at her death.
Ruby was a dedicated employee of Barnett Bank, which became Bank of America, for 28 years. She was a faithful member of the United Methodist Church at Taylor’s Chapel in Brunswick, and at Blythe Island UMC, where she served as treasurer for many years. When Blythe Island UMC was forced to close its doors, Ruby moved her membership to College Place UMC, in Brunswick. Ruby was also a faithful member of the Pilot Club, an international faith-based nonprofit service organization. Ruby’s Christian faith played a vital role in her life.
She is survived by two sisters, Myrtice Lumpkin and Eunice Johnson, both of Jacksonville. Her younger brother, Emory Donald “Ed” Copeland is living in Camden County. Ruby also leaves behind a son, Richard Eugene Dukes Jr.; and grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren as mentioned previously.
Ruby was a cancer survivor of 12 years and spent her last days at home in the care of Heartland Hospice of Brunswick, and with the aid and care of Janice Vasquez and her team of loyal caregivers.
Those who will are encouraged to make gifts to Heartland Hospice, in Brunswick.
Funeral arrangements are being made through Edo Miller and Sons Funeral Home in Brunswick and will be announced later.
