Ruby Slade, 85, of Greenville, MS, passed peacefully into the presence of her Lord on Saturday, May 30, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, and love for her family and community. Funeral services will be at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, June 1, 2026, at Emmanuel Baptist Church. There will be a visitation from 12:00 p.m. until the service time. Arrangements are under the direction of Boone Funeral Home, Greenville.
A devoted servant of her community, Ruby made history as the first woman elected to serve on the Board of Trustees for the Western School Line School District. She dedicated 38 years to the board, helping shape the education and future of countless students and families. Alongside her husband, Gene, she faithfully helped operate Gene’s Saw Shop for 42 years, from 1967 until 2009.
Ruby’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She was the oldest standing member of Emmanuel Baptist Church, where she served for many years as a Sunday School teacher. She was known for her unwavering commitment to prayer, faithfully writing down and remembering prayer requests for others. Her love for Jesus was evident in every aspect of her life.
Those who knew Ruby will remember her warm smile, kind heart, and steadfast faith. She found joy in serving others, encouraging those around her, and sharing God’s love. Her life was a testimony to grace, compassion, and dedication to her family, church, and community.
Ruby leaves behind a legacy of faith that will continue through the generations of family and friends she touched. Though she will be deeply missed, her loved ones take comfort in knowing she is now reunited with her Savior and those who have gone before her.
Ruby was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gene Slade; her daughter, Wanda; her father and mother, Virgle and Lexie Swindle; and her siblings, Clovis, Rayford, James “Buck,” and Francis. She is survived by her children, Malcolm (Anita) Slade, Guy (Melissa) Slade, and Laura (Lloyd) Rawson. She was a proud grandmother to Ashley, Amber, Alexis, Hope, Erin, Kristen, Beth, and LeeAnn, and was blessed with 12 great-grandchildren who brought her tremendous joy. She is also survived by her sister, Zelma, her only living sibling.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.