Ruby Nell South, 83, of Vandalia passed from this life on Tuesday morning December 21 of 2021 at home. She was a long time resident of Henrietta, Texas. Returning to the Vandalia area in 2018 she spent her remaining years near her 3 daughters and eldest son.

Ruby was born in Jackson, Tennessee to Luther H. and Lou Erin (Brinkley) Austin on December 7, 1938. She married Howard Roby South on April 21, 1960. Together they raised 6 children traveling and working throughout the United States eventually settling in Texas. Ruby was most content with a house full of young'uns, be it her children and all their friends to the great grandchildren and theirs. And she left an impact on each and every one. Ruby was feisty and funny and (ask the kids) fierce. She will not be forgotten by any who met her she was loved by many and will be missed by all who knew her.

Ruby was preceded in death by her parents and husband, one son, Marion Blaine South, Two brothers, Denny Eugene Austin and Luther Austin Jr, and a sister, Linda John.

She is survived by her sister, Debbie Parker of Idabel, OK. Two sons, Wayne Thomas South Sr. of Herrick IL, and Howard Roby South Jr. of Henrietta Texas and 3 daughters Jeannie (Donnie)Heiman of Herrick IL, Terry (Kevin) Buck of Ramsey, IL, and Belinda (Allan) Elliott of Vandalia IL.

17 grandchildren, Michael South, Christopher Heiman, Donnie Heiman Jr, Christy Moreland, Michelle South, Wayne South Jr, Cassidy Sussman, Miranda South, Brandon South, Shane Rhodes, Cole South, Ransom South, Nicole Pearson, Brittany Hardy, Kamber Moore, Sean Moore, Lyndsy Moore, 33 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren.

Miller Funeral Home, Vandalia, IL, is in charge of arrangements. Online memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.millerfh.net.