Ruby Bryan Richardson, 94, of Etowah, TN, passed into her Heavenly home on October 13, 2024.

She was pre-deceased by her husband of 64 years, Jerry Richardson.

Her love and life's work will be treasured by her immediate survivors, daughter, Ginger Richardson Wheeler and husband, Lester; granddaughter Lindsey Wheeler Powell (Heslie); great-granddaughter Mahala Ellen Powell; and brother, Jack Bryan.

Ruby's very full life, based on her deep faith in God and Jesus Christ, was a non-stop excursion of sharing her gifts with others in an endless beehive of church, farming, gardening, and community events.

The family's Pebblebrook Farm was home to a herd of registered Holsteins, with Ruby raising the calves into state production leaders and regional show-ring Grand Champions. Once the dairy herd was sold, Ruby turned her attention to the beef herd.  She had been captivated in recent years by goats, and especially one named Hank.

Ruby was particularly pleased when Pebblebrook Farms was recognized as a Tennessee Century Farm, the culmination of months of work and farm ownership traceability completed by Ruby. Pebblebrook is now documented to be owned by generations of the Richardson family for 176 years.

Her green thumb was legendary, with family and neighbors seeking her gardening and canning advice. Her hot dog relish and tomatoes were particular food favorites, turning into gifts for many.

Ruby's beautiful flowers brightened not only her yard, but served as a ministry as she often took floral arrangements to shut-ins, friends, and church services and dinners.  She loved competing in flower shows at area fairs.

Ruby was known to be a Lady Vol Superfan, being a season ticket holder to basketball games for many years, and never missing a game on TV. That interest never waned, and anyone who knew her better be prepared to discuss coaching, players, and missed baskets following every game.

Ever interested in making the world a better place, she served as a leader in many organizations.  She was a long-term officer of the American Dairy Association of Tennessee, the Cherokee Holstein Association, member of several boards of the Natural Resources and Conservation Service and related ag bodies.

Ruby always looked forward to assisting with Etowah's famous Fourth of July celebrations and Craft Shows, and promoting her beloved hometown in any way possible.  She was an avid supporter of Miracle Lake.

Ruby's greatest joys were two-fold: Faith and Family.  A dedicated member of First Baptist Church, Etowah, Ruby kept the nursery for several decades, was a Sunday-School teacher, helped verify church offerings, and helped with countless weddings, baby showers, and church meals.

Ruby adored family gatherings and catching up with her many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was known for her intense interest in their activities, and made a point to stay in touch with them.  The entire clan treasured her memorable "Thank You" notes, which defined her gratitude and love. Ruby loved traveling to visit with far-away family members, and equally loved hosting them if they returned to Tennessee.

In addition to her immediate family, Ruby is survived by her beloved nieces and nephews, and their extended families: Shelly Casteel (Roger), Marty Bryan (Sheri), Robert Bryan (Gina), Becky Bryan Riley, and Faith Ann Swayne (Ken). In addition to her husband Jerry, Ruby was pre-deceased by her parents, Bruce and Mabel Bryan, and her sister-in-law Eloise Bryan.

The family wishes to express their appreciation to a host of caring medical providers in recent years, including Dr. Craig Riley and Enhabit Home Health.  Their work enabled Ruby to remain at home until her death.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 17, 2024 at First Baptist Church, Etowah, followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 7:00 p.m. at the church. The church is located at 824 Washington Avenue, Etowah, TN.

Family and friends will assemble at Cedar Grove Cemetery, Friday, October 18th, for the 11:00 a.m. committal service.

The family suggests that, in addition to or in lieu of flowers, that memorial contributions be made to: The Jerry Richardson Scholarship Fund, c/o Pebblebrook Farm, P.O. Box 738, Niota, TN 37826 or Miracle Lake, P.O. Box 327, Etowah, TN 37331.