Ruby Thompson Durden was the daughter of Malinda J. Thompson,
who preceded her in death. Born April 16, 1935, she departed this life on
September 18, 2020.
At an early age, she professed her belief and began her faithful, humble
service in Jesus Christ. For many years, "Mama Ruby" served faithfully as a
Musician, Sunday School Teacher, Stewardess, Youth Leader, Missionary
Society President on the Local, District and Regional levels. She served as a
Delegate to many Conferences, Lay and Missionary, traveling to Missionary
Executive Board Meetings, General Connectional Board Meetings,
Leadership Training Schools and Missionary Institutes.
While pursing her career in Education, she studied at many institutions
including Alcorn State University, Mississippi University for Women, The
University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University and Dillard
University. "Mama Ruby" taught elementary through high school, science,
music, dance and general subjects in the Public School System for 32 years. A
few of the places that enjoyed her sharing of knowledge and talents were
Hughes, AR; Amory,MS; Eupora, MS and Moss Point, MS. She retired from
Houston Public Schools in Houston, MS in 1993.
"Mama Ruby" enjoyed being active in church, playing piano, cooking,
traveling, and spending time with her friends and five generations of family
and extended family.
She leaves to cherish her memories her two daughters: Alpha B. (Kirby)
Hughes and Rev. Jennifer F. Durden, both of Guntown, MS; one son, Darryle
(Donna) Durden, of Belleville, IL; six grandchildren, Chuana Durden
(Michael) Turner of Hopkinsville, KY; Kirnesha (Ashley) Hughes Hereford of
Canton, GA; Kelvis (Christina) Hughes; Kody Hughes, and Phillip Durden,
all of Guntown, MS; Chevus Durden of Belleville, Il; eight great
grandchildren, a very special daughter, Dereeser Armstrong of Verona, MS