Ruby Jean Bullard was born in Grady, AR on July 3, 1951 to the late Robert C. Stephens and Lillie Mae Stephens. Ruby , a free spirit with a heart of gold, was a loving mother and person. Taken from us too soon, she passed away peacefully on April 23, 2025 at the age of 73.

Ruby confessed a hope in Christ as her Lord and Savior as a young girl. She grew up and received her education in Grady, AR. She moved to East St. Louis, IL in 1974 and remained there primarily until she passed away.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Robert C. Stephens and Lillie Mae Stephens; her sister, Leachia L. Stephens, and her brother, Darron Stephens.

Ruby is survived by her children, Kenneth (Cleopatra) Bullard, Obbie Bullard of Granite City, IL, Felechia (Kenneth) Hampton, Vincent (Erica) Bullard, Demetric (Tricia) Bullard of Pine Bluff, AR, Efrem Prayer of Hagerstown, MD and Farlon (Kendrick) Baldwin of Granite City, IL, a host of grandchildren and great grandchildren; five brothers, Leroy (Wanda) Stephens of Detroit, MI, Willie James (Anne) Stephens of Pine Bluff, AR, Robert Earl (Darlene) Stephens of East St. Louis, IL, Ruben Harold (Tarade) Stephens of Cahokia Heights, IL, and Wyvon (Linda) Stephens of East St. Louis, IL; two sisters, Maxine Clark-Stephens of Little Rock, AR and Francis Kay (Len) Elliott of East St. Louis, IL, and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Ruby lived by the phrase, "Always be a helper," instilling it in us through her actions. No one, especially her children, escaped her uncanny ability to see a need and offer unwavering support.

We will miss the twinkle in her eyes during adventures, the hand that held us steady, and the embrace that whispered, "I've got you." Though gone, her lessons and love live on.