Shepherd, Ruby Ferrell Johnson

On January 12, 1928, Ruby Ferrell Johnson Shepherd was born the youngest child of Ellis Wells and Virgie Ferrell Johnson. In addition to her parents, her talented brother, Walter Robert Johnson, and her beloved sister, Dorothy Johnson Hale, preceded her in death.

In July 1947, Ruby married Edwin Lee “Pete” Shepherd, and the two created a true partnership, dedicate to their faith, to each other, to unselfish deeds that would positively impact lives, and to the family they would nurture.

Her two daughters, Rora Josephine “Jo” (Mrs. James O. Stables Jr.) and Brenda Gail were enveloped in a Christian home filled with love. Grandchildren who also benefited from her love are Kimberly Wills Crocker (husband, John), Christopher Scott Stables (wife, Kate) and Julian Blake Wills (wife, Jessica). Her great-grandchildren also were an integral part of her life, Andrew, Paige, and Samuel Crocker; Elliott and Frances Stables; and Rachel, Claira, and Isabel Wills.

Beginning in 1948, Ruby was active in her church, Rich Creek First United Methodist. She recently was honored by the Women’s Society of Christian Service for her dedication to His work. After rearing her children through high school years, she worked as the Clerk/Treasurer for the town of Rich Creek for 23 years.

On April 25, 2013, Ruby left this world to be forever at peace in His presence. We will miss her, but her legacy will be everlasting. Please join us, either in person or in spirit, as we celebrate her life, 2 p.m., Sunday, April 28, 2013, at Rich Creek First United Methodist Church with Pastor Doug Hyndrich and Rev. Aubrey Whitlow officiating. Burial will follow in the Sunrise Memorial Gardens, Rich Creek. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, April 27, 2013, at the Broyles-Shrewsbury Funeral Home in Peterstown, W.Va.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Rich Creek First United Methodist Church, to a deserving charity, or to someone whose burden would be made lighter.

“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall never want…goodness and mercy followed me all the days of my life, and I will be dwelling in the house of the Lord forever.”