Ruby Smith

Ruby Marie Bane Smith, 82, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering love, fierce devotion to her family, and a spirited personality that will never be forgotten.

Born on June 9, 1944, in Lynchburg, Virginia, to Lawrence Edward Bane and Ruth Smoot Bane, Ruby spent most of her life in the city she proudly called home. To her family in Lynchburg, she would always be affectionately known as "ReRe," a nickname she carried from the time she was a little girl. To Ronald, her coworkers, and the many friends she made throughout her life, she was simply Ruby. In 2017, she moved to Morehead City, North Carolina, to live with her daughter, Kim, and her family, where she spent her remaining years surrounded by the love of those closest to her.

Ruby's life was defined not by titles or accomplishments, but by the countless ways she cared for others. She devoted herself to raising her family as a stay-at-home mother, creating a home filled with love and unwavering support. Later, she worked for several years with Macke Vending Company, but her greatest work was always the life she built for those she loved.

She gave generously of herself to her community, volunteering in her daughters' elementary school, serving as a Brownie troop leader, and enthusiastically embracing the role of cheerleading mom. Wherever her family was, Ruby was there.

Ruby shared a beautiful life with her beloved husband, Ronald Gaylord Smith, who preceded her in death. Together they enjoyed traveling, exploring new places, and camping, creating treasured memories on the open road and around countless campfires. At home, Ruby could often be found with a good book in hand, finding comfort and adventure within its pages. She was deeply loved and adored by Ronald, who delighted in spoiling her throughout their life together. Their marriage was one of enduring love, friendship, and devotion.

Those who knew Ruby will remember her feisty spirit and unmistakable strength. Her immediate family lovingly called her "Sarge," a nickname that perfectly captured the determination. Though she could be strong-willed, everything she did came from a heart that loved deeply and unconditionally.

Ruby was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ronald Gaylord Smith; her cherished daughter, Teresa Lynn Smith Moore (Jeff); her parents, Lawrence and Ruth Bane; her sister, Doris Elizabeth Bane PerDieu; and her sweet grandson, Jeffrey Layne Moore Jr.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Kimberly Smith Krohn (Jeff), and her treasured grandchildren, Robert Kyle Smith Byrum (Amy), Matthew William Moore, and Emily Paige Krohn. Ruby found great pleasure in spoiling her grandchildren and delighted in every milestone, and every accomplishment.. She spoke of them often with immense pride, and each one held a special place in her heart. The love she gave them will remain one of her greatest gifts and her most enduring legacy.

Ruby also shared a special bond with her niece, Lynn PerDieu Cash (Mike), who loved and cared for her deeply and was like a daughter to her. Their relationship was a source of comfort, strength, and joy throughout the years, and Ruby cherished the love they shared.

The final seven years of Ruby's life were spent at Crystal Bluffs Rehabilitation and Health Care Center in Morehead City. There, she formed lasting friendships with many members of the staff, whose compassion, patience, and kindness became an important part of her life. It was also there that Ruby discovered a love for painting, embracing her creativity and finding joy in expressing herself through art. Her family extends their deepest gratitude to the caregivers who not only cared for Ruby with dignity and respect, but also loved her as their own. Their devotion brought comfort, peace, and happiness to both Ruby and her family.

The family extends an invitation to all who knew and loved Ruby to celebrate her life.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, July 2, 2026 at 9:00 AM at Duiguids Funeral Home at 21914 Timberlake Rd. in Lynchburg, Virginia. A funeral service will follow at 10:00 AM, with Brian Geiser presiding. Interment will take place at Virginia Memorial Park at 11490 Forest Rd, Forest, VA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the activities department at Crystal Bluffs Rehabilitation and Health Care Center in Morehead City, NC.

Ruby's absence leaves an immeasurable void, but her love, resilience, and unmistakable spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She taught those around her the value of showing up for family.

To those who loved her most, she will always be "Sarge"—feisty, fiercely loyal, and never one to back down. Though she is gone from our sight, the love she gave, the strength she embodied, and the memories she created will remain with her family always.

We find comfort in knowing that Ruby has found perfect peace and rest in the loving arms of Jesus, just as He promised:

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."[Text Wrapping Break]Matthew 11:28

She will be profoundly missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.