Ruby B. Brown
NEWPORT NEWS—Ruby Beatrice Brown died Feb. 11, 2009, at James River Convalescent Center.
She was born to the late Viola and Junie Brown on May 1, 1920, in Ivor.
She was preceded in death by her siblings, Mary Elizabeth, Lucy and Thomas. She was preceded also by a beloved niece, Linda Thomas Lassiter.
Ms. Brown and her family moved to Norfolk in the 1930’s.
She was a graduate of Booker T. Washington High School with a diploma in nursing.
After graduation, she was employed at the Naval Base.
She sojourned to the Peninsula and made her permanent residence in Newport News.
After retiring from Newport News General Hospital, Ruby continued to perform private duty nursing for several years.
She became a member of Antioch Baptist Church, where she participated in the church’s activities including; Jubilee Gospel Choir, Nurses’ Unit and the Angels of Mercy.
She was also an advisor to the Junior Angels of Mercy. She initiated the Tom Thumb Wedding Program for the Junior Angels of Mercy.
When she made her permanent residence in Newport News, she became a member of First Baptist Church East End, under the pastorate of the late Rev. Woodrow Brown Sr., where she implemented the Tom Thumb Wedding Program for the youth.
Through the years, she participated in activities including; Vacation Bible School, Golden Key Club, League of Christian Women and Senior Usher Board.
Survivors include her beloved son, James W. Brown (Kyra) of Newport News; two sisters, Doris B. Thomas of Norfolk and Catherine Bonner of Richmond; a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
A funeral service will be held at noon today at First Baptist Church East End.
Interment will be held in Greenlawn Cemetery.
M.E. Fisher Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.