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Deaconess Ruby Raines Johnson, daughter of the late George W. Terry and Ida Jones Terry, was born on June 9, 1923 in Ellaville, Georgia. From an early age, Ruby was influenced by her mother to love the Lord. Ruby’s education began in the public schools of Ellaville until the untimely passing of her mother, which led her to live with her grandmother, Minnie Jones, in Waycross, Georgia where she continued her education in the public school system. At the age of twelve years old, Ruby joined Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Waycross, where she became involved in various service oriented capacities that spanned throughout her life. Ruby later achieved certifications to teach young children, as well as specializations in the field of nursing care.
As a young woman, Ruby served as a member of the Young Women’s Auxiliary, Progressive Circle and sang in the Adult Choir and Juberlairs Choir at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. In 1946, she acknowledged her call from God to teach His word, receiving her certificate of ordination and ministerial council. For years, she faithfully served as Sunday School teacher, Director of the Youth Department, Director of Vacation Bible School, church reporter, announcer, and Deaconess. She faithfully supported the Baptist Training Union Congress, Friday Evening Prayer Band, City Wide Youth Crusade and the Spiritual Delight Community Choir. Ruby dedicated many years of service to the Great Eastern Missionary Baptist Association where she served as President of the Women’s Auxiliary. Ruby also served as president of the Home Missions for the Great Eastern Missionary Baptist Union (GMBC). Ruby was not only a leader but also a dynamic teacher, serving as a state instructor for GMBC. One of her most meaningful and respected accomplishments was serving as an educator in area mission organizations throughout Georgia. Other affiliations include the Ocean Star Chapter, No. 183 Order of the Eastern Stars.
Ruby enjoyed singing and listening to music; caring for her beautiful flowers; watching over her many pets; reading; studying the Bible; and talking about Jesus. She was a talented seamstress, potter, and baker who always prepared the best family meals. These gifts she freely shared and passed on to others.
Ruby was preceded in death by her husband, Rev. Willie Frank Johnson and by her only child, Jimmy Lee Thomas. She leaves to cherish her memory: daughter-in-law, Bertha T. Hollis (late Rev. Terrell E. Hollis, Sr.), Quitman, Georgia; grandchildren: Daphyne Thomas Mirr (James), Pleasanton, California; Terrell Hollis, II (Karla), Warner Robins, Georgia; Clese Hollis, Fort Valley, Georgia; and Byron Hollis (Ericka), Lowell, Massachusetts; great-grandchildren: Christopher Hollis, Terykah Hollis, Sarah Mirr, Terrell Hollis III, and Tierra Hollis; sister, Joyce Raines, Montezuma, Georgia; cousins: Dariel Cobette, East Elmhurst, New York; Evelyn Reed, Waycross, Georgia; Nannie ‘Pat’ Hollis, Americus, Georgia; an adopted son, Rev. Michael Warren; a spiritual daughter, Carrie O’Neal; and a host of nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends.
In spite of hardships experienced early in her life, Ruby chose to follow Jesus and totally put her trust in Him. She encouraged others to “Put your trust in Him. Lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path. Be happy in the Lord and do good. Serve Him. Love and pray for everybody. God loves all His children. Love Him and try to serve Him. There is joy in serving Him!”. These words of encouragement will forever echo in our hearts.
On Tuesday, June 30, 2020, in Quitman, Georgia, Ruby was summoned by God and without delay, submitted to his ultimate and divine will for her life. She stepped beyond the veil to enter into her eternal rest. Ruby touched the lives of many people. She will be dearly missed but never forgotten.
Due to the current health crisis affecting our community at this time, the family has arranged a private graveside service to provide the necessary safety protocol for all. There will be a public viewing, Friday, July 10, 2020, 4:00 to 8:00 PM at Fluker Funeral Home. 985 Ossie Davis Parkway, Waycross, Georgia.
In lieu of flowers, the family is encouraging donations to the Missions Ministry or the Youth Ministry at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church P.O. Box 2507, Waycross, Georgia 31501 in honor of Deaconess Johnson faithful years of dedication and service to area youth and the community in which she dearly loved.
Final and most sacred arrangements are entrusted to the professional care of Fluker Funeral Home. 985 Ossie Davis Parkway, Waycross, GA.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Deaconess Ruby Lee (Terry) Johnson, please visit our floral store.
Friendship Missionary Baptist Church (Mission’s Ministry or Youth Ministry)
p.o. box 2507, Waycross GA 31501
Tel: 1-912-283-6851