With deep love and heartfelt remembrance, we celebrate the life of Ruby Mae Johnson, a woman of unwavering faith, nurturing spirit, and enduring strength.

Ruby was born on August 6, 1950, in Rayville, Louisiana, to the union of Julia Mae and Clarence Johnson. At a young age, she moved with her family to Cincinnati, Ohio, where she would build a life rooted in service, love, and faith.

Throughout her life, Ruby wore many hats— caregiver, seamstress, transporter, and educator—but her calling and joy were most fully realized in her work with children, initiated in her work at the Catherine Booth Child Development Center. As a devoted daycare provider, Ruby poured out a special kind of love, cultivating safe and nurturing spaces for countless children and supporting mothers with wisdom and grace. She was the heartbeat of her community—a second mother to many and a spiritual compass to all who knew her.

Ruby's passions reflected her vibrant spirit. She loved going on cruises—her way of experiencing joy, rest, and renewal. But even in those moments, she never strayed from her natural inclination to give. Her joy was never selfish; it was always shared.

After the passing of her beloved mother, affectionately known as "Bae," Ruby became the matriarch of the Johnson family. She embraced the role with humility and strength, organizing family reunions, hosting celebrations, and standing as a steadfast pillar of support. Her home was always open, her heart always listening, and her presence always healing.

Ruby was preceded in death by her parents, Julia Mae and Clarence Johnson; her sister, Bernice McCoy; her brother, Sylvester Johnson; her nephews, Antonio, Virgil, and Mitchell; and her niece, Asia.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and leadership through her pride and joys—her devoted daughter, Melinda; cherished grandson, Branden (Dollene); beloved great-grandson, Blake; and endearing niece, Antonia. Ruby is also remembered by her sisters, Gloria Wilson (Willie), Virginia Cline (Andy), and Lucy Johnson; her brothers, Harold Johnson, Samuel Johnson, and Clyde Johnson; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, dear friends, and the many lives she touched.

Visitation is from 11:00 am until 12:00 pm , on  Monday, July 7, 2025, at the Walker Funeral Home - Walnut Hills Chapel, 2625 Gilbert Avenue, Cincinnati  (45206).   The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation beginning at 12:00 pm. Friends and family will gather to share memories, find solace in one another's company, and honor the legacy she leaves behind.

Interment will follow at Crown Hill.

To share a memory of Ruby or leave a special message for the Johnson family, please click the "Tribute Wall" tab above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory  is caring for the Johnson family during this difficult time.  Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.