Life Reflections

Ruby Jean Byrd Shoulders entered eternal rest on November 22, 2020.  The wife of William Shoulders, she was like a mother to her niece Tangular's children and grandchildren whom she loved dearly.  Ruby's parents, one sister and two brothers predeceased her.

Ruby was born March 3, 1946 in Harrisville, Mississippi, to the late Deacon Willie Daniel and Deaconess Mary Caesar Byrd. Ruby united with the Mount Salem Baptist Church at an early age.  She and her husband, William served diligently with the kitchen ministry until her health became too fragile.

Ruby graduated from New Hymn Attendance Center in 1965.  She continued her education at Prentiss Institute, Prentiss, Mississippi, and graduated with a earned Bachelor of Science Degree in education from Alcorn State University in 1971. She later received a Master of Education from Jackson State University.

Ruby was a STAR teacher and taught at James Elementary School in Drew, Mississippi, for over 40 years.  She was very patient with children and encouraged them to learn and reach their highest potential.

Ruby's husband William, of 30 years, is left to cherish her many memories.  She has three surviving sisters:  Dorothy Fairley, Braxton, Mississippi, Annie Halfacre, Lafayette, Indiana, and Mary Smith (Roy), Georgetown, Mississippi and one brother, David Byrd, Braxton, Mississippi, and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and great great nieces and nephews.