Ruby E. Brown

RUBY ELIZABETH BROWN, wife of the late David Brown Sr., was born on June14, 1921 in Florence, South Carolina. She was the eldest of twelve children born to the Joseph and Effie Smith. After a brief illness, she departed this life to be with God, in the early morning of October 16, 2008 Ruby received her education in the public schools of Lynchburg, South Carolina. She was a loving and gentle person who always had a warm and caring smile. Ruby was also known for her love of dancing, something she continued to do throughout her life. At the age of eighteen, she met David Brown, a tall and handsome young man. On August 6, 1942, she married her love. They were a striking couple and their love was destined to last a lifetime. Fifty years later in 1992, they would renew their vows to the delight of their children and family. Shortly after they married the couple moved to Baltimore to start their together. From their union they were blessed with seven children, five sons and two daughters.Ruby was a loving, caring and devoted mother and wife who balanced work and family. From many years, she worked in the food industry specializing in garde manger. She loved to cook, and every year Thanksgiving and Christmas were spent at her home. Her cornbread stuffing, fried cabbage, macaroni and cheese were simply unforgettable. Ruby was the true matriarch of her family and the thread that held everyone together.Ruby in her later years enjoyed traveling with family and friends. She had never flown before and was so excited when she did. Some of her travels included cruises to the Western, Eastern Caribbean, and a trip to Jamaica. Everywhere she went people simply loved her.Ruby’s faith in God was strong. For many years she was a dedicated member of Mount Zion Baptist Church where she served as a nurse. After her health prevented her from attending Sunday services, she remained true to her faith. She always looked forward to the weekly calls and monthly communion. Ruby deeply loved her children and all her relatives.She leaves to mourn: two daughters, Carlie Fry and Portia Brown; five sons, David Brown Jr., Earl Brown, Robert Brown, William Brown and Darryl Brown; three daughters-in-law, Elbert Fry and Junior Fong; seventeen grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren; three brothers, Joseph Smith, William Smith and Charles Smith; two sister, Ruth McKnight and Barbara Ann Hill; four sisters-in-law, Julia, Emma, Frances and Cassie Brown; three brothers-in-law, Willie McKnight, Charlie Hill and Pat Brown; her travel companion, Bernice Marshall; her faithful dog, Meshu; a host of other relatives and friends.

Tributes

Ruby E. Brown

June 14, 1921 - October 16, 2008