Emma Ruby Faye Robinson was born January 16, 1930 in Buffalo, Texas, to the late Emma Julianne (nee Sayles) and Isaiah Robinson.

She graduated from Buffalo High School, after which she attended Prairie View A & M University for two years. At the age of 19, shortly after her mother’s passing, she relocated to Cleveland, Ohio where she met and married Chest Lee Williams, Sr. From this union two children were born; Chest Lee Williams, Jr. (who preceded her in death) and Cecilie Lynne Williams.

At an early age she accepted Jesus Christ and was baptized at The First Baptist Church of Buffalo. After relocating to Cleveland, she spent many years as a member of both Antioch Baptist Church and Greater Abyssinia Baptist Church. Her final church home was Good Shepherd Baptist Church.

While working as a teacher’s aide at Hough Elementary School, a chance encounter with Martin Luther King, Jr. at a playground sparked her political interest. She served as the Republican Committee Chairperson of Ward 8 in the early 70’s. She was employed for thirty years on the janitorial staff of Cleveland State University until her retirement. During the early years of her retirement, she enjoyed traveling and shopping…. Lots of shopping!

She was an avid, voracious reader, and had a passion for journaling about Black history and current events. She enjoyed outings with her family, particularly trips to the casino and the horse track. She had a great sense of style and was always dressed to impress.

Ruby was called to rest March 28, 2024 at the blessed age of 94. She leaves behind to cherish her memory her daughter, Cecilie Lynne Williams, her granddaughter Brianna Renee Short, her great granddaughters Mackenzie Larynne Jones, and Christine Love Brown, and a host of friends and extended family.

We honor you today for a beautiful life well-lived. Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Well done.