Ruby Jane Woods

Ruby Jane Woods, 92, of Merritt Island, Florida, passed away on Sunday, February 16, 2025. She was preceded in death by her parents, Minnie C. and William Joseph Lumpkin; four sisters, Mildred Cavender, Margarete Yates, Katherine Collins, and Mary Shackelford; four brothers, Clyde Lumpkin, Ralph Lumpkin, Carl Lumpkin, and Willie Lee Lumpkin; her beloved husband, Robert Woods Sr.; and her son-in-law, Scott Miller.

Ruby is survived by her sister, Katie Cobb (Russell); her daughter, Tina Sciacca (Marc); her son, Robert Woods Jr.; two granddaughters, Morgan and Jessica; a grandson, Joshua; and a great-granddaughter, Adelaide.

A lifelong Christian, Ruby was a dedicated member of the Southern Baptist Church. She had a deep love for the Lord and cherished her Sunday routine, attending Sunday school and church every week with her family. Afterward, the family would often enjoy a meal at Piccadilly in Merritt Island, followed by shopping at the mall or heading home for a nap and a swim in the pool before evening church. Southern gospel music was a great passion of hers, and she always embraced the comfort and joy it brought her.

Family meant everything to Ruby. She especially looked forward to the Cedar Creek Homecoming, a family reunion held every year on the fourth Sunday of May, where she would reunite with loved ones at the church where she was raised. These gatherings were filled with laughter, fellowship, and, of course, great food. Ruby also had a special place in her heart for her friends, and she was known for being a social butterfly who never met a stranger. Whether she was living in her townhome in Suntree, The Fountains, or The Lenox, Ruby’s warm spirit and kindness touched the hearts of everyone she met.

Generosity was at the core of Ruby’s nature. She loved celebrating Christmas and birthdays, always carefully selecting thoughtful gifts and making sure every present was beautifully wrapped. She took great care in sending cards and making phone calls to remember the special days of her family and friends. Ruby’s devotion extended to her political beliefs as well; she was a proud member of the Republican National Convention, a strong conservative, and a dedicated supporter of President Donald Trump.

Ruby’s passion for cosmetology was evident in her lifelong career as a hairstylist. She loved her work and continued doing hair well into her mid-80s, forming lasting friendships with her clients. She also had a flair for fashion, always looking impeccably styled. Whether it was her coordinated outfits, perfectly done hair, or signature lipstick, Ruby embodied grace and elegance.

Ruby had a love for her family’s well-being, and when her children were young, she took time off from doing hair to sell Avon and Mary Kay, volunteer in their classrooms, and chaperone field trips. She was deeply involved in her children’s activities, from band and baseball to baton twirling, ballet, dance, and more. She loved spending time outdoors with her family, picking fresh fruits, enjoying nature walks, and taking trips to SeaWorld and Disney World. Ruby always made sure her children had memorable birthdays and cherished each moment spent together.

Ruby also enjoyed going out for a nice meal, particularly savoring steak, lobster, and a grand salad bar. She loved the peaceful ambiance of sitting by the water at the Chart House. At home, she took great pleasure in cooking, with favorites like fried okra, fried green tomatoes, and cornbread in buttermilk. In the afternoons, she could often be found getting her fresh green beans from the market, a friend or a roadside stand.

A visitation for Ruby will be held on Friday, February 28, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Wylie-Baxley Funeral Home, 1360 N Courtenay Pkwy, Merritt Island, FL 32953 with funeral services to follow. A committal service will take place on Monday, March 3, 2025, from 12:30 PM to 1:00 PM at Bushnell National Cemetery Ceremonial Assembly Area, Bushnell, FL 33513.