E. Thomas Ruby, 79, of Lewisburg, Kentucky, entered into the presence of his Savior on Saturday, April 25, 2026. While his family grieves his absence, they rejoice in the legacy of faith, love, and steadfast devotion that he leaves behind.

Born on October 14, 1946 in Rabbit Ridge, Kentucky, to William Thomas and Blonnie Mae Ruby, Thomas grew up learning the value of hard work, humility, and quiet strength- qualities that would define his life. In 2012, he married the love of his life, Freda (Danhauer) Ruby. Together they built a beautiful marriage grounded in faith and partnership. In 2018, they made their home at Lake Malone where they realized their dream of living on the water.

Thomas devoted 48 years to owning Tom’s Tree Service in Madisonville,Ky, earning The Messenger’s Reader’s Choice Award for over 20 consecutive years. He faithfully provided for his family and modeled integrity in every task he undertook. He lived out the words of 1 Thessalonians 4:11–12: to live quietly, work diligently, and walk humbly before others. His life was not loud, but it was powerful in its consistency and character.

His greatest joy was family, being a husband, father, and Papaw. Thomas was deeply devoted to his children; Amy Buchannon (Jason), Katie Sandmeyer (Nathan), Brittany Brakefield (Trey), and Kimberly Higdon. He was deeply proud of all their accomplishments. The lessons he instilled- faithfulness, perseverance, humility, and love- will continue to guide them for generations to come.

He was a man marked by steady laughter, his dependable presence, and a giving heart. He found joy in the simple blessings of life: people, peanut butter, and ice cream. His greatest desire in life was to be a blessing to someone every single day. Thomas shaped the lives of those around him by constantly giving of his time, talents, and treasure. His last gift on this earth being organ donation, which in turn will positively impact multiple lives.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Thomas and Blonnie Mae Ruby, his brother, Darrell Ruby, his sister, Ilene Poe, son, Donald Thomas Ruby, and grand-daughter, Hayley Forbes. We trust there was a joyful reunion in heaven.

Left to celebrate his life are his beloved wife of 14 years, Freda (Danhauer) Ruby; his children, grandchildren (6), great-grandchildren (5), and several nieces and nephews.

Thomas’s life was a testament to a man who loved well, worked hard, and walked faithfully. In lieu of flowers we ask for donations to the following organizations in his memory to continue his legacy of service.

St Vincent DePaul 296 W. 6th Street Russellville, KY 42276

Ave Philomena Religious Oratory 11600 W. Harmony Lane Olathe, KS 66062

Kirby Funeral Services, Russellville, KY is entrusted with arrangements. Visitation will be Wednesday April 29,2026 from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. in the chapel of Kirby Funeral Services Russellville with the funeral Mass to follow on Thursday April 30, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church Russellville, KY with burial to follow in Resurrection Cemetery in Owensboro, KY.