BREWER – Christine L. Ruby died peacefully Thursday, Sept. 17, 2009, with her loving daughter by her side at a local nursing home. She was born Dec. 11, 1919, in Lewiston, to Aubrey Thompson and Margaret O’Day. Chris attended school in Lewiston. Chris had a very interesting life, never fearing a new adventure. She was the owner of Ruby’s driving school for more than 30 years and taught many local children to drive, as well as teaching adults to drive motorcycles. Chris was a licensed auctioneer and enjoyed working in that field for several years. She also served in the 102nd Legislature and served on the welfare committee. She had the honor of serving tea in the Blaine House. Chris later took a job at Eastern Maine Medical Center where she retired from in 1989. After her retirement Chris took an active part in raising money for charity and volunteering her time to entertain residents in area nursing homes, playing her keyboard while her daughter sang. She loved music and it showed through her years of entertaining people through her love and talent for music. She was part of an all women’s band that played at the Bangor House in the early-1960s. She was a member of Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks No. 244 of Bangor, where she served as organist. She was a 28-year member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Auxiliary No. 3177, Brewer. She volunteered her time on charity drives helping to raise thousands of dollars for people less fortunate. She was a member of Fraternal Order of Eagles Auxiliary No. 3177 Ritual Team and competed on the national level for five years. She was proud of the position she held on the team. Chris was an avid bingo player as well as a 20-plus year caller of bingo until recent years when her eyesight would not allow her the pleasure of playing or calling. Her greatest love was playing cards where she could be found sitting and waiting for the next game to start at the Brewer Eagles. Chris is survived by her daughter, Marilyn J. Ruby of Bangor; her son, Kenneth C. Ruby of Brewer; and a stepson, Dennis Ruby and daughter-in-law, Margeta, of South Carolina. Chris was predeceased by a daughter, Melonie Ann; and a brother, Alfred Thompson. There will be a memorial service to honor Chris 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 28, at the Fraternal Order of Eagles, 22 Atlantic Ave., Brewer.
CHRISTINE L. RUBY
