Ruby Richard was born on August 10, 1935, in Little Rock, Arkansas, to Robert and Carmel Lee Miller. In the late 1930’s, the family relocated to Needles, California, joining her dear aunt, Catherine Dynes.
Ruby was one of thirteen children. She is survived by her sister’s, Vera, Margaret and Joyce, and brother Maxie Sr. (Philadelphia, PA). She was preceded in death by her sister Beatrice, and her brothers Carl, Clarence, Vernon, Robert, Nathan, and Lawrence.
Ruby received her early education through the Needles Unified School District and later continues her studies at San Bernardino, Valley College, Focusing on Human Resources. She proudly served her community as a Human Resource Counselor for San Bernardino County.
In 1951, Ruby met Robert Richard on a warm afternoon in Needles, California. Robert often shared the memory of meeting Ruby and how he could span her tiny 18-inch waist with both hands, fingers touching. Their love story blossomed into 60 beautiful years of marriage. From their union, they were blessed with eight children: the late Linda Richard-Carter, Robert L. Richard III (Delores), Ruby Fay Richard, Theresa Richard-Wiley, Michael Ray Sr. Richard (Anaresia), Jimmy Frank Sr. Richard (Elizabeth), Keith Avery Richard (Gina), and LeMon Deshawn Sr. Richard (Felicia).
In the mid 1960’s, the family moved to San Bernardino, California. Ruby dedicated herself as a homemaker, where she created a loving home filled with warmth, soulful meals, and spiritual strength. Robert worked for the city of San Bernardino and operated his own tree trimming business. Together, they were active members of Greater New Jerusalem Church of God in Christ, where Ruby joyfully used her voice to sing praises to the lord. In the early 1980’s, Ruby and Robert relocated back to Needles, California, after much prayer and faith. Robert went on to work as a tugboat operator for the Federal Bureau of Reclamation until his passing in 2011.Ruby continued her devotion to God and community by serving in the church at Upper Coast COGIC under the leadership of Elder James Anderson. She was a devoted member of the Hospitality Committee and often shared her gift of song through solos.
Ruby Richard, the cherished matriarch of the family, leaves behind a legacy of love and strength, a multitude of grandchildren, and 46 great grandchildren, and numerous great-great grands.
Ruby’s life was one of faith resilience, and unconditional love. She will be remembered by her radiant spirit, her devotion to her family, and her deep-rooted belief in God. Her love never failed, and her faith never faltered.
