Ruby L. Davis 1932-2025

Ruby was born Sept. 30, 1932, in Youngstown, the third of eight children born to Joseph Brown Sr. and Estella Evans Brown. She was educated in the Youngstown Public Schools and graduated from North High School in 1952.

A woman of deep faith, Ruby accepted Christ at a young age and became a member of Alpha and Omega First Baptist Church, where she began a lifelong journey of service, fellowship and compassion. A spirited and ambitious young woman, Ruby worked as a nanny and as a locker room attendant at the Tippecanoe Country Club to fund her admission to Youngstown University.

Though financial hardship prevented her from completing her degree, she remained determined and resourceful, taking a job in the cafeteria at Strouss’ Department Store. It was there that a chance pairing in a co-worker’s wedding brought her together with the love of her life, David Davis. Ruby and David married, settled on Youngstown’s East Side, and built a beautiful life together with their two daughters, Gloria and Kim.

Ruby made history in her own quiet, determined way. She became one of the first African American employees at Packard Electric, a division of General Motors. Starting on the assembly line, her intelligence, precision and work ethic earned her a promotion to quality control inspector, making her only the second African American to hold that role in the company. Ruby retired in 1988 after a 30-year career with General Motors.

After retirement, Ruby and David moved to Atlanta to be closer to their daughters and grandchildren. Ruby’s passion for service flourished after joining Providence Baptist Church in 1994. She served as president of the Nurses Guild, organized American Red Cross blood drives and a comprehensive health fair, and was a cherished member of the Mother’s Board and Missions Ministry. Her calming presence, loving nature and gift for encouragement brought comfort to many.

Ruby also had an entrepreneurial spirit. In Ohio, she was a top direct sales producer for Faye Swofford handbags and luggage. In Atlanta, she partnered with her daughter Gloria to co-found Atlanta Cards, the first African American manufacturer’s rep company contracted to sell Hallmark’s Mahogany Cards to retail stores. From 1988 to 1998, Atlanta Cards became a standout exhibitor at the National Stationery Show in New York and the Atlanta Gift and Merchandise Marts. She was also a Tour Guide at WSB Television Station in Atlanta for several years.

A social light and elegant presence, Ruby and David were known for their vibrant social life, attending parties, balls and celebratory events with friends across the country. Yet Ruby’s heart always remained rooted in her faith, her family and her mission to uplift others. To know Ruby was to love her. Her beauty, grace, warmth and wisdom made a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Ruby was preceded in death by her parents; her precious brothers, Clarence Brown, Hubert Brown, Orrin Brown and Joseph Brown Jr.; and her beloved sister, Juanita Trimble.

She is survived by her devoted husband of over 65 years, David Davis; daughters, Gloria Williams (Bobby) and Kim Mailey (Charles); grandsons, Alexander (Seychelle) Padgett and Justin Mailey; sisters, Henrietta Jeter and Jeannie (Simmie) Coleman; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and dear friends.

Ruby Louise Davis lived a full and meaningful life grounded in love, guided by faith and marked by kindness. Her legacy will continue to shine in the lives of all she touched.

A celebration of life was held Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Providence Baptist Church, 1777 Hawthorne Ave., College Park, GA 30344.

A final farewell celebration will take place 10 a.m. (viewing at 9 a.m.) Saturday, Aug. 2, 2025, at Alpha and Omega Baptist Church, 3120 Winton Ave., Youngstown, OH 44505.

Burial will follow in Tod Homestead Cemetery, 2200 Belmont Ave., Youngstown, OH 44505.

Local arrangements entrusted to the L. E. Black, Phillips & Holden Funeral Home.

(special notice)

Ruby L. Davis