With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of Mrs. Ruby Kate Spivey Clay, who was called to her heavenly home on July 10, 2024, at the age of 84. A lifelong resident of Oxford, Alabama, she was born to the late Henry Marcus and Dorsie White Spivey on November 7, 1939.
As a young woman, she was awarded multiple trophies in drag-racing and bowling. As a young mother, Ruby worked at home as a professional seamstress. She was known for making Oxford’s cheerleader and majorette uniforms, bridal and formal gowns and various items for stores in the Quintard Mall. Ruby’s path led her to serve her church with bookkeeping, secretarial work for the Oxford Parks and Recreation Department, and later, she took on the role of manager at Quality Printing, where her strong work ethic and leadership were greatly respected.
A woman of faith, Ruby served her church as a pianist and organist. She enjoyed her family and documenting every occasion with pictures and videos. She had a passion for researching her family tree.
Ruby was a graduate of Oxford High School class of 1958 and maintained a presence in her community throughout her life. She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion that will be forever cherished by her husband of 67 years, Arthur Boyd “Bub” Clay; her daughters, Vicky Rich (Greg) and Valeri Miller (Dudley); her adored grandchildren, Amber Howard (Jeremy), Carrie Skinner (Brandon), Kayte Boyd, Clay Boyd (Autumn), and Logan Boyd (Catie); and her treasured great-grandchildren, Carleigh Smith, Brennen Howard, Riggs Skinner, Kennedy Boyd, and Dyer Boyd. Preceding her in death were her brother L. R. “Buddy” Spivey and sisters Nell Rayfield and Margaret Cash.
The graveside service to honor and celebrate Ruby’s life will be conducted at Forest Lawn Gardens on Saturday, July 13, at 11am with close family friend, Brother Philip Smith presiding (known to her as “Flip”). Cremation Services of East Alabama in Anniston is handling the funeral arrangements.
As we bid farewell to Ruby, we are comforted by the memories of her unwavering kindness, her nurturing spirit, and the immeasurable impact she had on her family and community. May we continue to honor her memory by embodying the values she held dear.
Special thanks to Dr. Vance Moore and multiple devoted nurses with Amedisys Hospice for helping us to fulfill her wishes by caring for her at home.
