Ruby Louise Nelson

Ruby Louise McIntyre was born on October 12, 1945, in Newport News, Virginia, at Whitaker Memorial Hospital, to the loving union of Robert Elbert McIntyre and Louise (Sellers) McIntyre, both of whom preceded her in death. As the eldest of nine children, Ruby held a special place in her family and helped establish a foundation of love and family connection that would remain an important part of her life. At the age of twelve, Ruby gave her life to Christ at Fountain Baptist Church in Newport News Virginia. In 1961, Ruby and her family relocated to Los Angeles, California, where she continued to grow and build the life that would become her legacy.

Ruby graduated from San Fernando High School in 1964. Following graduation, she began her professional career at San Fernando Electric Company. Throughout her working years, she held several positions with Los Angeles County-USC, OliveView and Department of Children and Family Services.

A lifelong believer in personal growth and the value of education, Ruby continued her academic journey and graduated from California State University, Northridge, in 1995. She subsequently served as a social worker with the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services, dedicating herself to serving children and families. After years of faithful service and commitment, Ruby retired in 2002.

On April 16, 1966, Ruby married the love of her life, Howard Lawrence Nelson. Their union was blessed with two beautiful daughters, Elicia Parret Nelson and Tanyka Shinell (Reginald) Robinson, who were among her greatest joys and proudest accomplishments. She was also blessed with a beloved grandson, Jayden Reginald Robinson, who brought immeasurable happiness to her life.

Ruby treasured her family and held her role as a mother and grandmother close to her heart. Her love for them was unwavering, and the joy they brought her was beyond measure.

In 1983 Ruby and her family faithfully began serving at Mount Zion Baptist Church in Pacoima California under the leader of Pastor Kenneth J Gaul. She faithfully served as a choir member, Deaconess and a member of the Board of Trustees. Above all, Ruby’s life was rooted in her love for the Lord. Her faith was more than something she professed; it was something she lived and shared through her actions, service, and love for others.

She found great joy in serving God and participating in various ministries within the body of Christ. Her love for Gospel Music was evident through her beautiful gift of song, which she shared as a member of several church choirs and a family singing group known as The Youthful Voices of Joy.

In 2006, following retirement, Ruby and Howard relocated to San Antonio, Texas, where they began a new chapter of life together. After the move to San Antonio, Ruby and her husband found their new place of worship, Resurrection Baptist Church (RBC),under the leadership of Pastor Ray D. Brown.

Ruby faithfully served in the Greeters Ministry, where she welcomed everyone with warmth, kindness, and a gracious spirit. She also participated in evangelism classes and was a devoted attendee of the church’s weekly Sunday School until health would no longer permit. Whether through a welcoming smile, a heartfelt song, or a word of encouragement, Ruby found meaningful ways to express her faith and touch the lives of those around her. Her dedication to the Lord and His people was an important part of who she was.

Ruby leaves behind a loving family and countless cherished memories. She will forever be remembered and treasured by her two daughters, Elicia Parret Nelson – Santa Clarita, CA; Tanyka Shinell (Reginald) Robinson – Santa Clarita, CA; her beloved grandson, Jayden Reginald Robinson – Santa Clarita, CA; and her siblings, Lenetta McIntyre Covington – Palmdale, CA; Robert McIntyre Jr. (Rebecca) – Palmdale, CA; Tonnie McIntyre – Lancaster, CA; Brenda McIntyre Jones (Raymond) – Austin,TX; Willie McIntyre (Martha) – Raleigh-Durham, NC; Reginald McIntyre (Angela) – Las Vegas, NV; and George McIntyre (Vanessa) – Palmdale, CA. She is also lovingly remembered by her sister-in-love, Althea McIntyre – Lancaster, CA (widow of her late brother), Floyd Darrell McIntyre; her sisters-in-love, Vanessa Elmore – Birmingham, AL and Dorothy Sanders – Detroit, MI; and her brothers-in-love, Samuel Sanders – Marion, AL and Ray Sanders – Lexington, KY. She also leaves to cherish her memory a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, church family, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing and loving her.

Ruby was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Howard Lawrence Nelson; her parents, Robert Elbert and Louise McIntyre; and her brother, Floyd Darrell McIntyre.

Ruby’s life was a beautiful testament to the enduring power of faith, family, service, and love. She leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured by years or accomplishments alone, but by the lives she touched, the family she cherished, the faith she demonstrated, and the love she so freely shared.

Though her physical presence will be deeply missed, the memories of her gentle spirit, her joyful songs, her welcoming heart, and her unwavering faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Her earthly journey has ended, but her love, her legacy, and the seeds of faith she planted will continue to flourish through the generations she leaves behind.

To God Be The Glory!

May this tribute serve as a beautiful reflection of Ruby’s life, her love for her family, and her devotion to the Lord. May her memory forever be a blessing to everyone who had the privilege of knowing and loving her. ❤️