Ruby Linda Peters

Born December 4, 1949 in Nashville, Tennessee, she was a daughter of Vader Lee and Maudie Lee (Binkley) Billingsley. She married David Michael Peters on May 4, 1973 in Pekin. He survives.

Also surviving are one son, David Michael (Dianna) Peters, II of Pekin; two granddaughters, Kyra Peters and Kylie Palmer; one great-grandson, Silas Palmer; two brothers, Howard “Randy” (Donna) Billingsley and Donald (Marie) Billingsley; one sister, Norma Goodale; and many "relatives" who adored their grandma/aunt Ruby whether they were related by blood or not.

Ruby was preceded in death by her parents; one son, Joseph Peters; and four brothers, Anthony, Robert, Hugh, and Roy Billingsley.

Ruby loved God, and had a deep, personal faith, most recently attending the New Life Christian Fellowship in North Pekin. Ruby also loved all of God’s creatures, especially adopting and raising several Boston Terriers that became her babies. She enjoyed cooking, baking, arts, crafts and was very creative. Ruby had the greenest of thumbs and loved to plant and grow anything she could find. Ruby and David enjoyed watching football and she was an avid fan of Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs.

Ruby loved all things “glam,” from glittery clothes and jewelry, to flowers and sparkles in her long, beautiful hair. Yet, at a moment’s notice, when David arrived home from his latest hunting or fishing expedition, she would roll up her sleeves and draw on the amazing butchering skills she learned from her mother.

Most importantly, Ruby was one of those beautiful souls you might only meet once in a lifetime. She had a rare insight into human nature. Ruby was able to see the best in people, with a genuine warmth that she extended to everyone she met. And, once she met you, she never forgot your face or name. Unburdened by preconceived notions, Ruby was easy to be around. She was the perfect combination of sugar and spice - she could be philosophical and lively in the same conversation. Her individuality made her the most interesting person in the room. She often blessed those she cared about with thoughtful and encouraging words through Facebook, text messages and hand-written notes. Visitors to their home always left with a gift in their heart and in their hand.

Ruby’s essence will always remain with her family and friends, keeping the best of her love close, always.

Ruby’s visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, March 16, 2026 at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Creve Coeur. Her funeral will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at the funeral home. Pastor Ryan Lee will officiate the service. Burial will follow at Fondulac Cemetery in East Peoria.

Psalm 23: The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Memorial contributions in honor of Ruby may be directed to the St. Jude Midwest Affiliate, 530 NE Glen Oak Avenue, Peoria, Illinois, 61603 or Freedom Paws Service Dogs Foundation, 5407 East Cambron Avenue, Chillicothe, Illinois 61523.

To express condolences online, visit www.Preston-Hanley.com.