Ruby Lee Smith Jahnke Mitchell

With heavy hearts but hopeful spirits, we announce the passing of our beloved Ruby Mitchell, who peacefully entered into the presence of her Savior on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, at the age of 91.

Ruby was so much more than the titles she carried—mother, grandmother, sister, friend—she was a true servant of God, a woman of deep faith, and the spiritual foundation of our family. Her love for Jesus was not just something she spoke about—it was something she lived. Every day, in every act of kindness, every word of encouragement, every prayer she whispered—she reflected the light and love of Christ.

She was a faithful member of her church, where she found community, joy, and strength. Whether she was singing hymns, volunteering her time, or simply sitting quietly in the sanctuary with her Bible. She walked with grace, trusted God through every season, and taught all of us to do the same.

Ruby was the heart of our family—a woman of unwavering faith, boundless love, and quiet strength. She spent her days doing what she loved most: taking care of others. Her kitchen was always full—of delicious aromas, comforting meals, and a seat at the table for anyone who needed it. She poured love into every dish she made, and her cooking brought our family together in the most joyful ways. Her food was soul-warming, her creativity was inspiring, and her love was limitless.

When she wasn’t in the kitchen, you’d find her sewing, crafting, or working on something with her hands. Her creativity was endless, and so was her generosity—always giving her time, her talents, and her heart.

What we’ll remember most is her heart—sweet, generous, and full of fire. She was gentle but strong, tender but fierce, sweet but never without a little sass. She had a way of making you feel known and loved, and her sense of humor could brighten even the darkest day. She was strong, independent, and fierce in her love for her family. She taught us what it means to stand tall, stay faithful, and love unconditionally. She touched so many lives and will be missed beyond words.

Though our hearts are heavy, we are comforted by the timing of her passing. On the very day we celebrate Christ’s resurrection, she stepped into glory—healed, whole, and held in His arms. What a beautiful homecoming.

She is survived by her grandchildren: Allen Ambrose V, Donald Ambrose, and Lacey Mikell; her great-grandchildren: Warren Smith, Sadie Walton, Alexis Mikell, Tanner Mikell, and Liam Hall and her son-in-law, Allen Ambrose IV, and her sister, Evelyn Smith. She now joins in eternal rest her beloved husbands, Donald Jahnke and Robert Mitchell; her cherished daughter, Donna Ambrose; her sons, Curtis Heddon and Kenny Heddon; her parents, Eva and Perry Smith; her sisters, Mae Turner, Elsie Stout, and Martha Wade; and her brothers, Floyd and Lloyd Smith.

A celebration of her life will be held on  Tuesday, April 29, 2025 at Plainview Baptist Missionary Church in Walker, LA. Visitation from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM with a service starting at 12:00 PM; burial will be directly after the service. In honor of her memory, we invite you to wear something colorful—just like her spirit.

We miss her dearly, but we rejoice in the promise of the resurrection she so deeply believed in. Her life was a testament to grace—and her passing on Easter is a powerful reminder that we will see her again. We love you, Maw Maw. Thank you for everything.