Obituary of Ruby Rodden Helms

Ruby Rodden Helms, age 85, of Brumley, Missouri, passed away Tuesday, December 1, 2009 at Lake Regional Health System in Osage Beach, Missouri. Ruby was born April 6, 1924, a daughter to Nathaniel and Pearl (Richardson) Rodden. Ruby was united in marriage to Clark Ballenger who preceded her in death in 1983. She later married Felix Helms. Ruby was an original member of Rodden Church of Christ. In her spare time, she loved to do cross-word puzzles and fishing. She also enjoyed cooking, and many claimed she made the best biscuits and gravy and no-bake cookies. More than anything though, her favorite time was spent with family, whom she loved dearly. Ruby was a loving wife, mother and grandmother and was a caring neighbor and friend. We celebrate her life and accomplishments and will cherish the memories she created for her family and friends. Ruby is survived by her husband Felix of eight years; three daughters, Barbara Long of Kansas City, Kansas, Angel Hill of Laquey, Missouri, and Sue Ely of Brumley, Missouri; one son, Ted Ballenger of Eldon, Missouri; nine grandchildren, Raymond Long, Gayle Bichsel, Trish Witt, Angel Jungmeyer, April Thornsberry, Joel Ballenger, Nathaniel Ballenger, Jackie Arnold and Chrystal Patrick; nineteen great-grandchildren and eight great-great-grandchildren, along with several other relatives and friends. Ruby was preceded in death by her parents; three sisters, and one brother.