Ruby Mae Jenkins

Ruby Mae Jenkins, a beloved daughter, sister, and devoted wife, peacefully passed away on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 3:04 PM at Grand View Alzheimer's Special Care Center in Peoria, Illinois. She was 91 years old.

Ruby was born on July 1, 1934, in Bloomington, Illinois, to Guy and Kizzie Murrell East. She grew up in the heart of central Illinois and graduated from University High School in Normal, Illinois, where she built the foundation for a life filled with adventure and service.

On August 7, 1954, Ruby married the love of her life, Robert Jenkins, in Bloomington, Illinois. Their union began a remarkable journey that would span over five decades and take them across the globe. As a devoted military spouse, Ruby embraced the challenges and adventures that came with Robert's service in the United States Army. Together, they lived in Germany and numerous locations throughout the United States, creating memories and building friendships wherever they were stationed. Her adaptability and strength as a military wife exemplified the spirit of service families who sacrifice for their country.

Ruby was a faithful member of Morningstar United Methodist Church in Normal, Illinois. Her faith provided her with strength and community, and she remained connected to her church family even in her later years. The church was not just a place of worship for Ruby, but a cornerstone of her community involvement and spiritual growth.

Ruby was preceded in death by her beloved husband Robert, who passed away on January 6, 2005, after more than 50 years of marriage. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Guy and Kizzie East, and her two brothers, Guy and George East. Ruby's legacy lives on through her surviving family members, including her two sisters: Bettie Sutton of Fresno, California, and Mary Kunz and her husband Dwayne of Morton, Illinois. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who will forever cherish the memories of their loving aunt.

Funeral services celebrating Ruby's life will be held at 10:30 AM on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home in Bloomington, Illinois. Reverend Kim Burke will officiate the service. Burial will follow at East Lawn Memorial Gardens in Bloomington, Illinois. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during visitation from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home in Bloomington, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to Morning Star United Methodist Church in Normal, Illinois, honoring Ruby's lifelong commitment to her faith community.

Ruby Mae Jenkins lived a life marked by devotion, adventure, and unwavering love for her family. Her journey from a small-town Illinois girl to a well-traveled military spouse demonstrates her resilience and adaptability. She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her loyalty to family and friends, and her steadfast faith that guided her through life's many chapters.

Complete obituary and online condolences may be shared at www.calvertmemorial.com