Ruby Denise Bickham Wakefield

Born July 22, 1956 in Robstown, Texas, she was raised in nearby Calallen, where she enjoyed the benefits of a large extended family.

Her love for sewing and handwork were fostered by her grandmother, great-aunts and mother, who passed on their skills to Ruby.

Her passion for helping others was exhibited at an early age through her work as a lifeguard and her volunteer activities at a local hospital as a Candy Striper.

In addition to her many school activities e.g. Senior Class President, student council, Christian Action Group, etc., Ruby was also a twirler, pianist, and active in Camp Fire USA, where she achieved the groups highest award, the Wo-He-Lo Medallion.

After graduating seventh in her class at Calallen HS, Ruby attended Southwest Texas State in San Marcos, Texas. A member of the Delta Zeta sorority and sometimes shuttle bus driver, she continued to touch the lives of those around her, creating lasting friendships that thrive until this day. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from SWT in 1978.

Her first job out of college took her to Houston, Texas, where she worked as a counselor in a group home for troubled teens.

After several other administrative positions she moved to San Antonio, Texas in 1984. It was there that she met and married Ronald Charles Wakefield and raised a wonderful family.

If asked what her greatest accomplishment was, Ruby would undoubtedly say it was her children. Her home was often the site for gatherings for her children and their friends. Young and old alike were drawn to Ruby's warm, fun-loving, straightforward and giving personality, as evidenced by the many people from every stage of her life that considered her a close friend.

In 2000, Ruby reentered the workforce, teaching Alternative Living Environment classes at Reagan HS. She received her Teaching Certificate through the Region 20 program in June of 2003. She was active in the Special Olympics program, assisting with the coaching of a basketball team, and was a longtime member of the Northside Church of Christ.

Ruby was many different things to many people; excellent seamstress, good with a rifle, shoulder to cry on, gym queen partner, impromptu country music crooner, sounding board, straight-shooting advisor, and the list goes on. In essence, she was a good friend in the truest sense of the word to more people than we will probably ever know.

Through 47 years, she touched and enriched the lives of those who knew her by giving more of herself than she asked in return. Her lifetime of giving followed her to her deathbed, where she was carrying a handmade Christmas stocking which she was trying to complete for her youngest niece.

Ruby is survived by 4 children, Amber Wakefield and fiancé Bob Erickson of San Antonio, Charlie, Cody and Chance Wakefield of San Antonio; parents, Gordon and Peggy Bickham of Corpus Christi, TX; grandmother, Naomi Fritz of Robstown, TX; brothers, Keith and Kimberly Bickham of Spring, TX, Duane and Susan Bickham of Friendswood, TX; and a large extended family.

The family requests that those wishing to make donations in lieu of flowers send contributions to Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, P.O. Box 650309, Dallas, TX 75265 or to a charity of their choice.

The family would like to extend their sincerest gratitude to the medical professionals at Cancer Treatment Research clinic and Methodist Hospital oncology department. Their comfort, caring and professionalism during this difficult time is a credit to their profession.

In addition, the loving people of San Antonio and beyond who have been so incredibly selfless in their support, comfort, and care for Ruby will always hold a special place in the hearts of her family for all their many wonderful deeds on Ruby's behalf.