Obituary of Ruby Whelan

Passed away peacefully at Carbonear General Hospital surrounded by her loving family on Sunday, December 31, 2023, Ruby Whelan, aged 88 years. Predeceased by husband Edward, parents Woodley and Annie French (nee Forward), brother George (Shirley), sisters Mary Skinner (Bill), Patsy Galway (Leo), Rose Taylor (Bert), and Alice Dawe, beloved nieces Sharon Clarke, Patsy Galway and nephew Tony Galway. This amazing woman leaves behind with fond memories her children Anne, Eddie (Deanne), Woody, Helen Clarke (Phillip), and George (Shelly). Family was at the core of Ruby's existence, and her love extended abundantly to her grandchildren. The joy of being a grandparent was a role she embraced with unparalleled enthusiasm, creating cherished memories filled with laughter, stories, and unconditional love. She is leaving to mourn, grandchildren Edward, Antonia (their mother, Marliese), Rubyanne (Tyler), Alexandra, Lauren, Phillip, and her great grandchild Polly. Ruby is also fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews, all of whom she truly adored. Some of Ruby’s fondest memories were growing up in the Courthouse in Harbour Grace, a town she dearly loved. Ruby was known to share her love for the town and its interesting characters with anyone who was willing to listen. Everyone from miles around knew Ruby of Ruby’s Drive-In and Restaurant. Her and Ed founded the business in 1960, which led to running a successful business for almost 60 years. Ruby dearly appreciated the many employees and patrons of Ruby’s Drive-In and Mary Browns over the years. Ruby’s humour and witty personality brought joy and laughter into the lives of everyone around her. She was a beacon of kindness and generosity and left an indelible mark on the hearts of those fortunate enough to know her. Ruby lived life with an open heart. Her acts of kindness were not only boundless, but carried a genuine warmth that left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered. Ruby was never seen without her red lipstick on and wouldn’t hesitate to tell you if you needed some too. She loved a glass of scotch and never missed an episode of the Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy, and The Price is Right. She was an avid animal lover, especially of cats and birds. Her nurturing spirit would never let a stray go hungry. Special mention to Patsy Carpenter, a cherished friend who stood by Ruby’s side for almost 40 years. Also fondly appreciated by Ruby was her kind friend Aidan Moriarity, whose frequent visits brought much joy to her life. The family would like to thank the staff, nurses, and doctors at Carbonear hospital, as well as the many caregivers and friends who provided Ruby with caring and support over the years, especially Jim Coady, Dr. Colette Dawson, and Dr. Gerry Power. Everyone who knew and loved Ruby is asked to remember Ruby in their own way, whether it be raising a glass of scotch, listening to a Willie Nelson song, feeding a stray or the birds, or sitting back and watching the Wheel. Visitation at Noel’s Funeral Home, Harvey Street, Harbour Grace on Wednesday, January 3 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m., 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., Thursday, January 4 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Funeral service to be held on Thursday, January 4 at 2:00 p.m. from Coughlan United Church, Harbour Grace. Cremation to follow. Interment in the Roman Catholic Cemetery, Harbour Grace. Flowers gratefully accepted. Donations in Ruby’s memory may be made to the Baccalieu Trail SPCA, 46 Gullies Road, Spaniard’s Bay, NL, A0A 3X0, online at baccalieutrailspca.net and the TCP Health Foundation, 86 Highroad South, Carbonear, NL, A1Y 1A4.