Ruby E Blake

Ruby Evangeline (Lightle) Blake was born on March 24, 1915 in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, to Harvey and Annie Lightle, both of whom emigrated from Canada. She was raised on Detroit's East Side and graduated from Southeastern High School in 1932. Ruby enrolled at Asbury College in Wilmore, Kentucky, and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1936. A gifted soprano, she sang a solo at her commencement ceremony. She returned to Detroit, working first as secretary to the Christian Business Men’s Association, and then at the Voice of Christian Youth, where she assisted in planning Saturday night youth rallies, summer excursions to Bob-Lo Island, and editing their newsletter.

Ruby took a job with American Airlines, which operated out of Detroit’s City Airport, in 1942. She learned the reservation process and eventually became a manager, training new sales agents on airline booking, customer service, and the first computer reservations systems. She retired in 1976 and became the managing travel agent with Al Bolden and Company Travel in Grosse Pointe Woods. She handled airline ticketing for Detroit Tigers road trips, planned and hosted popular bus tours, and developed a loyal clientele through her sunny and caring character.

She married Theodore F. Blake in 1967, having met him while volunteering at a rescue mission worship service. Ruby was the soloist and Ted, a widower and Chrysler retiree, was the lay preacher. They courted for seven years and enjoyed seven years of marriage before Ted’s passing. Ruby and Ted traveled much, brought joy and laughter to friends, and modeled a deep Christian faith, always ready to help others in need of comfort or care. She was a member of Crosspointe Christian Church in Grosse Pointe Woods. Ruby kept up with her Canadian cousins, maintained friendships with people through the years, and always included those who were lonely and hurting in group activities.

Ruby celebrated her 100th birthday in March with family and friends. She did not have children of her own but was a beloved Aunt Ruby to her four nephews and one niece. She was preceded in death by her only sister Alice Pepper. Ruby passed away peacefully at home on August 15, 2015. She was buried at White Chapel Cemetery in Troy, Michigan. Ruby Blake faced each day with a song in her heart and joy in the beauty of life.