It is with broken hearts and profound sorrow that we announce the sudden passing of Ruben Ventura, age 51, of Fayetteville, TN, who was taken from us far too soon.
Affectionately known to everyone as a gentle giant and a “big teddy bear,” Ruben lived a life overflowing with warmth, kindness, and devotion. He loved his family, friends, and work family with every ounce of his heart. Above all else, his greatest mission in life was ensuring his beloved wife, Stephanie, was cared for and cherished, and being the most wonderful, loving Papa to his grandchildren.
Ruben was born on October 2, 1974, in San Diego, California, to Ruben Ventura and Rickey Ann Marie Rodriguez. He spent 16 meaningful years working for Frito Lay, a chapter made all the more special because it was where he met the love of his life, Stephanie. They married on August 14, 2012, sharing a deep, inseparable bond—whether they were happily spending quiet evenings at home together or walking along the beach. An avid gamer who loved his Xbox and computer games, Ruben also brought that same joy and dedication to his current work family at Franke.
Ruben is survived by his wife, Stephanie Hasting Ventura; sons, Nate Ventura of Blanche and Isiah Walden of Flintville; bonus children, Taylor (Nicolas) Burkett of Fort Benning, GA, and Jeremy (Nicki) Hasting of Fayetteville; and his cherished bonus grandchildren, Ruthie Burkett, Oliver Burkett, and Dior Hasting. He is also lovingly remembered by his brother, Tony Medina of Fayetteville; sister, Marlene Ventura (Andrew) Bolander of Hazel Green, AL; niece, Chloe Hallars; nephew, Jimmy Hallars; and a multitude of special friends and extended family members.
Family and friends are invited to come together to remember, honor, and celebrate Ruben’s life during a memorial visitation held from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at Higgins Funeral Home.
Higgins Funeral Home is privileged to offer comfort, care, and support to the family of Ruben Ventura.
