On the peaceful morning of January 7, 2024, at 8:10 A.M., the small town of Goree, Texas, bid farewell to a beloved resident, Ruby Marie Burns. Born to Verna and Neva Merrifield in Sayre, Oklahoma, on January 12, 1935, Ruby’s life journey unfolded against the backdrop of family, love, and a profound connection to the land she called home. A devoted wife, mother of eight, and cherished member of the community, Ruby left an enduring legacy of warmth, resilience, and love that will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew her.
Ruby’s life story was intricately woven with threads of love and commitment. In the small rural community of Goree, where life moved at its own unhurried pace, Ruby found her anchor in the embrace of family and the simple joys of life. She married Tuffy Burns, and together they embarked on a remarkable journey that spanned 66 years before Tuffy’s passing in 2012. In this enduring partnership, Ruby and Tuffy raised two boys and five girls, cultivating a family grounded in love, unity, and shared experiences.
Ruby’s love for the land and nature manifested in her passion for working in the yard. Whether tending to a vibrant garden or nurturing the beauty of the outdoor spaces around her, Ruby found solace and joy in the simplicity of nature’s wonders. Her green thumb and the colorful blossoms that adorned her surroundings were a testament to her nurturing spirit and connection to the earth.
Quilting was another cherished pursuit that filled Ruby’s days with creativity and purpose. With skillful hands and a heart full of love, she transformed pieces of fabric into intricate quilts that became tangible expressions of her devotion to her family. Each stitch carried the warmth of her affection, and every quilt she crafted became a cherished heirloom, a testament to her artistry and the love woven into every fiber.
Ruby’s journey was marked by both joy and sorrow. She faced the challenges of life with resilience and grace, embracing the highs and weathering the lows with unwavering strength. In the face of adversity, she exemplified the quiet courage that defined her character, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who witnessed her unwavering spirit.
Preceded in death by her parents, her husband Tuffy, a son, a sister, and a brother, Ruby’s departure leaves a void that echoes through the close-knit fabric of her family. Yet, within that void, there exists a tapestry of memories—of shared laughter, tender moments, and the enduring love that formed the foundation of her legacy.
Ruby is survived by her two sisters and one brother, as well as her sons Lonnie and Bill, and her daughters Rena, Rickie, Mickie, Vickie, and Joni. Her family extends beyond immediate relations, including 13 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren. The richness of her family tree reflects the love and connections that radiated from Ruby’s nurturing presence.
In honoring Ruby’s memory, the family has chosen a path of simplicity. At this time, no formal services are planned, allowing those who knew and loved her to carry her memory in their hearts, where the echoes of her laughter and the warmth of her love will forever endure. Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to the care of McCauley-Smith Funeral Home.
