Ruby Mae Oliver Ledford, 90, passed away peacefully at home on February 18, 2026. Born September 4, 1935, she spent nearly all of her life in Cleveland County, North Carolina, aside from treasured time in Germany while her beloved husband served in the military. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ted Ledford; her son, Terry Ledford; and numerous loved ones who joyously welcomed her home.

Ruby is survived by her sons, Chris Ledford and Jamie Ledford and wife Mary; her daughter-in-law, Cindy Ledford; and Donna Ledford, who remained a special and loved part of her life and family. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Dustin, Christin, Jeremy and wife Courtney, Amber, Drew and Hunter, along with ten great-grandchildren, Kaden, Jayden Colt, Myla, Silas, Arianna, Eliza, Kimaya, Garrett, Kinslee and Liza who brought her immense pride and joy.

A devoted member of Lawndale Baptist Church, Ruby's steady faith guided her life. Scripture reminds us in Proverbs 31:25-26, "She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue." Those words beautifully reflect the way she lived. No matter what she was dealing with personally, she remained selfless -- always more concerned about others than herself.

Ruby loved many things in life, but nothing compared to her family and her home. Being at home mattered deeply to her. Any hospital stay was simply a temporary inconvenience in her mind, and she made it very clear -- often -- that she was ready to go back home as soon as possible. On more than one occasion, she was willing to argue her case with doctors and family alike. Even after her recent hospitalization, she was adamant that she needed to be home, growing more than a little aggravated when her family wouldn't simply "take her home." Home was her place of comfort, independence, and peace.

You never walked into her house without being urged to sit down and eat something, whether you were hungry or not. And you never left without hearing that you were loved. Ruby believed the kitchen was the heart of the home, and she made sure hers beat strong. Around that table, stories were told, worries were eased, and no one ever felt like a stranger.

She shared a deep and cherished friendship with Joyce, who remained dear to her heart. She also maintained loving bonds with Allison and Barbie, and with Hope, holding each close in her own way. Ruby's love was not confined by titles or circumstances -- if you were part of her life, you were part of her family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Huntington's Disease Society of America or Via Health Partners in her honor.

Her legacy is one of quiet strength, unwavering faith, and a love that gathered people in and never let go.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 21, 2026 from 2:00 PM to 3:45 PM at Lawndale Baptist Church.

The funeral service will be held at 4:00 PM on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Lawndale Baptist Church with the Rev. Randy Willis and Rev. Jim Kilby officiating.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Stamey-Tysinger Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Fallston.