Ruby Lee Ballard

Ruby Lee Ballard, transitioned this life peacefully, surrounded by family on December 25, 2025. Ruby was born on September 21, 1940 in Winona, Mississippi to the union of Cleo (Campbell) and to the late Willie Quinn Sr. She was the fifth child of seven children and was preceded in death by both parents and three sisters: Rose Anne Quinn, Dorothy Mae James, Ruthie Myers and two brothers: Willie Quinn Jr. and James Otis Quinn. She is survived by one brother and wife; J.C. (Carolyn) Quinn and sister-in-law, Carolyn Quinn, wife of the late James Otis.

At an early age, Ruby confessed her faith in Christ as her Lord and Savior then later in life she joined Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church. As she departed this earth she confessed and rededicated her life in Christ.

The family relocated to Memphis, Tennessee where she received her education in the Memphis Shelby County School District. In the mid 1950’s, Ruby met and was united in marriage to Elzie Lee Ballard. From this union, two beautiful daughters were born: Stella Mae and Willa Mae Ballard. After becoming a mother of two, Ruby learned quickly that nurturing was essential while being a faithful wife and loving mother to her family. After the dissolution of this marriage; she took a leap of faith and relocated to Kansas City, MO with her two daughters and an acquaintance, Hugh Lee Taylor.

In 1957, Ruby Lee married Hugh Lee Taylor and to this union two loving daughters were born: Brenda Lee and Melinda Carol Taylor. She was a devoted wife and nurturing mother now of four beautiful girls. In 2005, her husband, Hugh Lee preceded her in death.

Later in life, Ruby became acquainted and fell in love with Clay Flemmons, Jr. and from this union they were blessed with their desired son, Clay D. Ballard. Unfortunately, Clay’s father became ill and preceded him in death.

In 1967, Ruby decided to seek employment and was hired by the S.S. Kresge Company; one of the largest retail stores in Kansas City. She was employed as a “Food Server” then promoted to “Cashier.” She assisted customers in food service and hosted tables in the restaurant dept. Ruby was a dedicated and reliable worker. She took pride in her work and wore a smile while always treating customers with kindness. In 1977, the S.S. Kresge Company became a chain of the Kmart Company. After this conversion, Ruby started a new career path in the retail industry as a “Merchandise Associate.” She learned to be proficient in assisting customers, organizing clothing and recording inventory. In 1990, she retired from the Kmart Company.

In 1993, Ruby returned to the workforce and was employed by the Kansas City Public School (KCPS), where she held the following positions: “Food Handler” then promoted to “Food Manager.” She enjoyed cooking, serving and engaging with students from elementary through high school. Everyday, Ruby took pleasure working in the cafeteria. She was compelled to ensure students ate in a clean environment and practiced safe hygiene as they received proper nutrition. Ruby had a motto and enforced “No Child Left Behind!” In 2011, she sought full retirement and looked to fulfill her dream of spending time with family.

Ruby received professional training in basic safety and earned her “Food Handler Certificate.” Her work ethic was exceptional, always giving 100% of herself. She was determined to be dedicated, prompt and great at whatever she did. Our mother exemplified being kind to everyone and every opportunity she demonstrated to her family that respect is both given and required. She always told the truth and taught her children to do the same. Her belief to treat people fair and kind was extremely important! In many ways, she wasn't an ordinary woman. Ruby wore a smile that brightened the room, she was a very petite lady but stood tall; she was humble but noble; she was gentle but courageous. The epitome of the “Proverb 31 Woman”; she definitely was. Because her spirit was so free, she was like a mother to all whose paths she crossed. Her funny wit was ever so unique and her wisdom unmatched! Ruby was a smooth and classy lady. In her past times, she enjoyed grooving (dancing) while listening to music: (hymns, gospel and the blues). She was very private about her lineage and profoundly a "Protector” of her legacy.

Ruby Lee Ballard, we are forever grateful for “A Quiet Soul” that will never be forgotten!

She leaves a legacy of love and will be deeply missed by her surviving children: Willa (Leonard) Vann, Brenda (Rickey) Hunley, Sr., Melinda Taylor, Clay Ballard, her eleven (11) grandchildren, sixteen (16) great grandchildren, and five (5) great great grandchildren. And is now reunited with her affectionate daughter Stella Mae Ballard. She also leaves a host of nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, great great nieces and nephews, cousins, relatives and friends.

God chose “Our Precious Jewel” – Ruby…We Love You Forever from Earth to Eternity…