Ruby Jay (Gregory) Walton

Ruby Jay Gregory Walton, age 77, transitioned to peace on August 3, 2025, at her home in Union, South Carolina.

Born on January 7, 1948, she was the daughter of the late Allen and Maybelle Gregory. Ruby was a proud graduate of Sims High School, Class of 1967, and remained an active member of the class reunion committee, cherishing the opportunity to reconnect with her classmates.

Ruby was a loyal wife, devoted mother, cherished grandmother, loving sister, and faithful friend. Her warmth and kindness touched everyone she met. She was always someone you could count on—whether for a listening ear or a helping hand.

Her spiritual home was the Historic Bethel Baptist Church of Jonesville, SC, where she served faithfully for over 50+ years. She was a dedicated member of the Senior Adult Choir, Culinary Committee, Sunday School, Sympathy Club, Sisterhood Prayer Circle, Wednesday Evening Bible Study and the Missionary Circle.  Ruby found great joy in serving her church and treasured the fellowship of her church family, close friends, and neighbors.

Ruby retired from Milliken & Company in January 2014 after 44 years of service as a textile inspector. Her outstanding work ethic and dedication were recognized and celebrated throughout her career.

Before her illness, Ruby enjoyed tending to her yard, capturing moments through photography, learning to draw, thrift shopping, and working on jigsaw puzzles. She especially loved traveling and attending family events. Her greatest joy came with the birth of her beloved granddaughter, Taylor Rae, who made her a proud “Granny.” Ruby cherished time spent with her children, Tracie and Donald, and her best friend and niece, Monica Foster. She also delighted in participating in church and community events.

Ruby was the devoted wife of the late James L. Walton. Their marriage of over 44 years was a testament to her unwavering commitment to family. She lovingly cared for her husband through health and illness until his passing on February 13, 2013.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Allen and Maybelle Gregory; her husband, James Walton; her sisters, Joyce Ann Gregory and Dorothy Gregory and her brothers, Robert, Eugene, and Thomas Gregory.

Ruby is survived by her children, Tracie Walton-Dinkins and Donald Walton (Bonnie Taylor); her granddaughter, Taylor Walton; her niece/daughter, Monica (Jerry) Foster; her sisters, Frances (David) Morman and Rita Gregory; and her sisters-in-law, Mary Gregory, Willie Ethel “Wilma” (Frank) Goode, Dorothy Tina (Larry) Stevens, Curtis Ann Hunter (James), Mary Lee Jeter, Rose (Norwood) McClain, and brothers in law Gary Farr (Lisa Young) and Michael Walton. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends, and neighbors. Ruby will be truly missed.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.”
— Matthew 25:23

Arrangements have been entrusted with Community Mortuary Inc., 361 Meansville Road, Union, SC. 

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