Ruby Helen English, 81, of West Paducah, passed away on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Mercy Health Lourdes in Paducah. She was born on February 6, 1945, in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, to the late William R. and Lucy Katherine Barnes Gray.
Ruby was a devoted member of the Paducah Seventh-Day Adventist Church, where her faith in Christ guided her daily life and remained the foundation of her home and family. Together with her beloved husband, Earnest Ray English, she built a life centered on love, faith, family, and service to others. Ruby was a devoted wife to Ray throughout their 42 years of marriage, and the love they shared was evident to all who knew them.
Above all else, Ruby loved her family. Her sons, Tony and Dean, were always her greatest priority, and when grandchildren and great grandchildren came along, her love and devotion only grew stronger. She was their biggest supporter, fiercest advocate, and constant source of encouragement. Ruby played an instrumental role in the lives of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, always making certain they knew they were deeply loved.
Ruby never met a stranger, and her home was always open to others. She was known for her generous spirit and selflessness, often giving to others even when it meant doing without herself. Family gatherings, holidays, birthdays, and special occasions brought her tremendous joy. Whether it was Christmas celebrations, birthday parties, or simple family meals, Ruby always went above and beyond to make every gathering special with an abundance of food, snacks, gifts, and love for everyone around her.
She enjoyed traveling with family, especially cherished trips to Colorado, which remained some of her favorite memories. Ruby also enjoyed crafts and creating beautiful flower arrangements, reflecting her creativity, patience, and appreciation for beauty.
Ruby dedicated many years working in the human resources and finance offices at Tele-Service until its closing. She later continued her career at Gilliam Candy Company until retiring. Never one to stop learning, Ruby later returned to school, earned her associate degree, and went on to work for several healthcare providers in office administration roles.
Ruby is survived by her two sons, Tony Ray (Sandra) English and Larry Dean (Diane Rogers) English; her two sisters, Mary Ellen Hall and Katherine Grace; her two brothers, William R. Gray Jr. and Boyd Gray; her two grandchildren, Tray (Jennifer) English and Mandi Lister; her two great grandchildren, Dalton Lister and Hailey Lister; along with several nieces and nephews.
Ruby was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 42 years, Earnest Ray English; her two sisters, Norma Beatrice Yates and Audrey Head; and her four brothers, Donnie Ray Gray, Leroy Gray, Marion Martin, and W.A. Martin.
Services will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah with Rev. Benny Heady officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery in Paducah. Visitation will be from 5:00-8:00 PM on Monday, May 11, 2026, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home in Paducah.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to the West McCracken Fire Department, 9340 Ogden Landing Road, West Paducah, KY 42086.
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