Surrounded with love and supported by prayer Jacqueline Marie Yvonne Ruby, age 91 passed away peacefully at River Gardens Retirement Residence on January 7, 2022. She was born in Stratford, April 19, 1930, daughter of the late David and Barbara Jones. Marie spent her early years in St. Mary’s, Dundas, returning to Stratford as a young child. Oldest of 4 children, sisters Faye Capling (Glen – deceased), Sandra Meta (Russ), brother Charles Jones – deceased (Yvonne “Bonnie”). She married Arnold Mitchell of Stratford and lovingly raised three daughters; Debra Mitchell (David Doherty), Stratford, Joelene Warmington (Robert) of Brantford, Kim Mitchell – deceased and her only grandchild, son of Joelene, Jason – deceased. Loving aunt to many nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family throughout Ontario.
She lived raising her family in both country and city settings including, Stratford, Sebringville, Brampton, Noelville, Monetville, Kenora, Kitchener, Hills of Mulmur, Sault Ste. Marie, Brantford, moving with her husband due to his professional assignments. After retirement they lived briefly in North Carolina, enjoying a southern coastal setting, spending time with her youngest daughter Kim. On the death of her husband Arnold, she returned to Canada to live in Burlington by the lake. It was at this time on her return to Ontario that she and Lloyd Ruby (father of Marcia, Norman and Carolyn) reacquainted. This renewed a much earlier family friendship. They married in June 2000 and she returned to live in Stratford.
Wherever she lived she sought out churches to support her faith, served on many committees, teaching Sunday School, hosting prayer groups and Bible studies, and most recently as a long-time member of Memorial Baptist Church served on the Anniversary committee of the church. Her faith was a determining factor in her actions, and she quietly and often privately was able to provide support to those in need. A caring and thoughtful woman, she enjoyed and took part in many activities, had varied careers and particularly enjoyed her role as an esthetician, owning several related businesses. With an entrepreneurial spirit she particularly supported women to pursue their interests. Impeccable in style, she encouraged others to prioritize their care for themselves. Sharing her home with family she was a gracious hostess, enjoyed decorating her home with treasured heirlooms, providing a setting for large gatherings of family, friends, filled with joy and laughter. Her love of animals included her early years of horseback riding, dogs of all sorts and varieties, hobby farm interests, the out of doors, all passions which she shared with her daughters. Volunteer work was extensive and included work with the Alzheimer Society, Toastmasters, Christian Women’s Club and M.A.D.D. Some of her most beloved memories are those of times spent with family at “Little Lakes”, family cottages in Bayfield, summers at the dock along the French River, and snowmobiling whenever there was a fresh snowfall.
Special thanks are extended to the staff at River Gardens Retirement Residence for their care and compassion shown towards Marie over the years. Their attentive care never went unnoticed and on the wings of Angels she was uplifted in her spirit.
Due to Covid restrictions a family graveside service will be held at South Easthope United Cemetery. Cremation has taken place. As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to the Children’s Wish Foundation, Kim Mitchell Culinary Arts Memorial, the Canadian Bible Society or the charity of one’s choice through the W.G. Young Funeral Home, 430 Huron Street, Stratford. 519.271.7411 www.wgyoungfuneralhome.com
