Ruby Lee Edwards

Ruby Lee Edwards, a beloved matriarch and cherished friend to many, passed away peacefully on April 25, 2025, at Autumn Care of Waynesville. Born on November 9, 1929, in the serene landscape of Haywood County, North Carolina, Ruby embodied grace and resilience throughout her remarkable journey of life.

A devoted worker, Ruby dedicated years to the role of Inspector at Dayco, bringing diligence and pride to her responsibilities until her retirement in 1985. Beyond her professional life, Ruby was rich in spirit—a life deeply enshrined in family and faith. She delighted in the presence of her children, grandchildren, great and great-great-grandchildren, leaving indelible marks on their hearts and minds. Each stitch she sewed, every quilt she crafted, was intertwined with love, reflecting her nature as a nurturing soul. Ruby’s hands created not just fabric but warmth and comfort, with beautifully made quilts, shirts, and cherished items gifted to her family and loved ones.

As a lifelong member of Allens Creek Baptist Church, Ruby dedicated herself to her spiritual community. She eagerly engaged in activities, teaching Sunday School, guiding The Ladies Class #3, and leading the Junior Girls class, where her wisdom and kindness undoubtedly inspired countless young hearts. Her vibrance extended beyond the church, as she shared joyful times with the Red Hat Society testament to her spirited nature and desire to embrace life’s joys.

Ruby was preceded in death by her loving husband, Samuel "Bud" Edwards, who left this earth in 1994, and her son, Terry Edwards, and her great-granddaughter, Shea Sawyer. She also mourned the loss of her parents, William Raleigh Mills and Mabel Mitchell Mills, her sister, Mattie Jones, and two brothers, Harold and Louie Mills.

She is survived by her devoted daughter, Becky Chambers (Bruce), her sons, Ron Edwards (Nanette) and Gary Edwards (Debbie), and her beloved daughter-in-law, Mary Ann Edwards. Ruby will be deeply missed by her three brothers—Richard Mills (Linda), Gerry Mills (Melanie), and John Mills (Debbie) and will forever live on in the hearts of her ten grandchildren, nineteen great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

A Graveside Service will be held for Ms. Edwards on Thursday, May 1st, 2025, at Rocky Branch Cemetery with Reverends Jason Queen and Scotty Patrick officiating.

Ruby Lee Edwards leaves behind a tapestry of fond memories and a legacy that resonates through generations. Her life was a celebration of love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to her family and faith, weaving a story that will continue to be told with warmth and affection in the years to come.

Memorials may be made out to Allens Creek Baptist Church Missionary Fund at 549 Allens Creek Rd, Waynesville, NC 28786

The care of Ms. Edwards has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville