Ruby Bayles

Ruby Jean (Walker) Bayles of Ward, Arkansas was born on December 24, 1933, completed her journey, and went home with her Heavenly Father on December 28, 2022.  She was the loving daughter of Eddie Walker and Ada Walker of Ward, Arkansas.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 43 years, Richard (Dick) Bayles; her son Stephen Wayne Bayles; daughter Sheila Ann Bayles; and great grandson, Jayden Eric Bayles.

She is survived by her son, Rickie Bayles (Donna).  She loved her many grandchildren, Cassie Bayles Taylor (Jeremy), Heath Bayles, Danny Carter (Katie), Derrick Bayles, Brittany Bayles, and Caleb Bayles; and great grandchildren, Connor Taylor, Evan Taylor, Brock Carter, Isabella Bayles, and Hudson Bayles.

She was a loving mom, grandmother, and great grandmother.  She also loved many extended family and friends, and her church family was very dear to her heart.

She attended First Baptist Church of Ward where she played the piano for 62 years and loved singing in the choir.  She was also the First Lady of Ward, Arkansas for 22 years, as her husband, Richard Bayles was Mayor.  She was President of Democrat Election Committee of Lonoke County, and President of Monk Cemetery.

Ruby had a contagious personality, and her infectious grin was a God-given gift.  Everyone who knew her felt her sweet spirit which left a lasting impression.  Ruby read her Bible every morning; her current Pastor Bro. Mike, will read her favorite verse – Nehemiah 8:10.  Her wish was for Bro. Bill Hilburn to read I Corinthians 13. 

Ruby loved working in her yard planting pansies and “naked ladies flowers”, but her grandson Jeremy always mowed them down.  She loved watching the birds and squirrels fuss over the bird seed.  She continued mowing her yard till the age of 82.  She loved her family, but most importantly, she loved the Lord with all her heart and followed him all of her days.

Visitation begins at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, December 31, 2022, followed by funeral service at 2:00 p.m. at Ward First Baptist Church.  Burial will be in Monk Cemetery.  Arrangements by Smith Westbrook Funeral Home, 404 W. Dewitt Henry Dr., Beebe, AR.  To view the online registry, please visit www.smithfamilycares.com/westbrook