Ruby Geraldine Williams' Obituary
Ruby Geraldine Williams was born in Jefferson Davis County in Prentiss, Mississippi on April 17, 1923, to Prince Albert and
Sweetie Powell Hall. She was the fifth child of twelve siblings.
Ruby obtained her early education at Cedar Grove Elementary School and her high school education at Prentiss Institute.
She was a graduate of Jackson State College, which is now known as Jackson State University, located in Jackson,
Mississippi.
At an early age she became involved in the education and development of boys and girls in her community while serving as
Principal at Cedar Grove Elementary School.
Ruby accepted Christ as her personal Savior at an early age. She was baptized and regularly attended Mt. Zion Missionary
Baptist Church with her parents and siblings.
Having a strong desire to move somewhere farther North, Ruby left Prentiss and moved to St. Louis, Missouri where she met
Leonard Bernard Williams. They were married on Easter Sunday, April 21, 1946, and were happily married for thirty-seven
years until Leonard's death in 1983. To this union, three children were born: two sons, Ronald Bernard Williams and
DeWayne Leonard Williams, who both preceded her in death; and one daughter, Felece Vanessa Brown. Ruby was blessed
with seven grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren and two great, great grandchildren.
Ruby was employed with Washington University as Director of the Wohl Center for twenty-nine years. While employed with
the University, she maintained an outstanding performance record and received several letters of commendation. After
twenty-nine years of service, Ruby decided to retire in January, 1985.
Ruby devoted her entire life to her family and her Church. She gave an enormous amount of her time, resources and service
to each of them. At her church she served in the capacity of District and Diocese President, Vice-President, Secretary and
Treasurer of the Women's Auxiliary Board, which is currently known as the United Christian Women's Ministry (U.C.W.M.) at
the Local District, as well as the Diocese level. She was active on the National level of her Church for many years. On the
National level she served as National Parliamentarian of the United Christian Women's Ministry and served as National
Treasurer. At her local Church she served as treasurer for the Church's local United Christian Women's Ministry Group, a
Trustee, and as a member of the Executive Board. She also served as a member of the Finance Committee.
Ruby served on the Mother’s Board of the Mercy Seat Baptist Church and was a member of the Golden Ages. She was also
a member of the 55 Ministry at Pleasant Green Baptist Church, which is a local Church in the community where she lived.
In addition, Ruby was active in numerous civic and charitable organizations and performed many mission works in her
community. She held membership in the NAACP and served on the Non-Academic Committee of Washington University
where she took advanced courses toward her Master's degree. She also attended enrichment seminars at the University of
Missouri and Drake University. She held an office on the Board of Elections located in St. Louis, Missouri where she resided.
Ruby was a God-fearing, Spiritual woman. She lived her life by example and not just by words. Her life was a shining light for
any women striving to live a Christian life. During her long and productive lifetime she demonstrated in countless ways, her
dedication to the welfare of others and earned the respect and affection of people from all walks of life and all ages. She
lived during the most eventful century of this world’s history and, in her quiet way, was a force for good and a stabilizing
influence on those around her during these turbulent years.
Most of all, Ruby was an exceptional woman in every aspect. She was a counselor to people of various age and careers. She
was an excellent cook. She was a well-dressed lady and was known for the hats she wore. When she walked into a room,
everyone took notice.
Ruby was preceded in death by her parents, six sisters, and four brothers. She leaves to cherish her memories: one
daughter, Felece V. Brown (Alonzo); one brother, Alphonso L. Hall (Lottie) of Alexandria, VA); one sister-in law, Jewel Hall, of
St. Louis, MO; seven loving grandchildren; eleven great grandchildren; two great, great grandchildren; and numerous
nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.
Praise God for the 99-plus years He allowed her to spend with us here on earth!
What’s your fondest memory of Ruby?
What’s a lesson you learned from Ruby?
Share a story where Ruby's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Ruby you’ll never forget.
How did Ruby make you smile?
