Ruby Elizabeth Driver Slate

Mrs. Ruby Elizabeth (Britt) Driver Slate, age 86, of Temple, peacefully passed away on Friday, May 29, 2026. Born on November 15, 1939, in Carrollton, she was the beloved daughter of the late James D. Britt, Sr. and Martha E. (Stone) Britt. Ruby was preceded in death by her first husband, Thomas J. Driver; her second husband, Sonny Slate; her son, Timmy Driver; her brothers, James D. Britt, Jr. and Tommy Britt; her sister, Ruth Vanata; and three cherished grandchildren, Bleu Holland, Jimmy Ledbetter, and Thomas Driver.

Ruby had a passion for sewing and knitting, often creating toboggans and blankets for babies in NICUs alongside her sister. She was a devoted mother who selflessly cared for her children, rising early each day to prepare their breakfast. Her first husband, Thomas Driver, fondly referred to her as "his Ruby," while the children were "his jewels." Ruby’s love extended deeply to all her family, and she took great pride in witnessing their growth. Known for her inner and outer beauty, she was never seen without her signature red lipstick and was cherished for her wonderful sense of humor that brightened many days. Family was the cornerstone of her life, endearing her to many as “Mama Ruby” or “Granny Ruby.” When able, she enjoyed crafts and cooking, always ensuring that visitors left with a snack. Ruby Elizabeth Driver Slate’s life was a testament to love, care, and devotion, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She is lovingly remembered by her son and daughter-in-law, Jeff and Donna Driver of Muscadine, Alabama; her three daughters and two sons-in-law, Faye Ledbetter of Temple, Robin and Willi Bar of Carrollton, and Liz and Dean Harden of Carrabelle, Florida; her three sisters and one brother-in-law, Reba and Leroy Ivey of Bremen, Reatha Talley of Carrabelle, Florida, and Joyce Yancey of Waco; as well as twelve grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, six great-great-grandchildren, and numerous other relatives.

In keeping with Ruby’s wishes, she will be cremated.

A celebration of her life will be held on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at 2 P.M. at the Temple Church of God. Pastor Ronald Cook will officiate, and Mr. Tony Ledbetter will provide the eulogy. The family kindly requests attendees to wear bright colors in honor of Ruby’s vibrant and colorful legacy. 

Interment will follow in Stripling Chapel United Methodist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made in Mrs. Ruby Driver Slate’s honor to Temple Church of God (55 Country Place, Temple, GA), Tanner Hospice, or the Ovarian Cancer Society (American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741).

Messages of condolence can be made to the family by signing the online guestbook at www.croftfuneralhome.com .

Hutcheson-Croft Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Temple is entrusted with the arrangements.