Ruby Pauline Atkins Smith

Ruby Pauline Atkins Smith, age 98, of Waleska, Georgia passed away June 8, 2026. She was born on January 23, 1928 in Atco, Georgia to Freeman Paul Atkins and Myra Elizabeth Yancy Atkins. She was preceded in death by her siblings Bob Atkins, George Atkins, Bertha Atkins Robinson, and Frank Atkins.

Ruby will be remembered for her kindness and her warm and friendly nature. She was a mother figure to so many in her life. She always opened her home to anyone in need and she provided strength and guidance to help them accomplish goals. She was a perfect example of living life with a “glass half full.” She always focused on her blessings and uplifted others. She lived a life radiating her unconditional love for everyone.

Ruby was married to Jack Smith for over 60 years. He passed away April 9, 2014. Ruby was a faithful and constant helpmate to her husband. His career consisted of real estate development, residential contracting and housing authority inspection. He was also Mayor of Waleska for some time. In addition, Ruby Smith spent several years helping families in need with the Child Development Program in Waleska.

When Jack was living, Ruby and Jack had a carefully maintained and abundant garden. She spent time canning and cooking the vegetables, like her tasty greenbeans. Her pride and joy were her juicy tomatoes and she loved to share them with neighbors. Ruby’s porch and yard featured a variety of colorful flowers. Her beautiful gardens were a testament to her hard work. Her yard and garden were always welcoming and full of life.

One of her favorite pastimes was watching the Atlanta Braves baseball games. She especially cheered for Ozzie Albies. One memorable time was the game she was able to attend two years ago.

The Christian faith guided Ruby Smith throughout her life and she attended First Baptist Church of Waleska, where she was an active member for over 60 years. She and her husband were instrumental in the building and relocating of the Waleska First Baptist Church in order to better serve the community. She was a perfect example of a Godly lady. She handled adversity and challenges with constant prayer.

In her final years, Ruby Smith received exceptional care from her caregivers- Brittany Lockard, Shonda Schutzl, Debra Hanes, Faith Smith and Hannah Trippe.

She is survived by her daughter Edna Cook, grandchildren Julie LeSesne (Kenneth) and Amanda Brown (Peter) and great grandchildren Logan LeSesne, Dean LeSesne, and Peyton Brown. All reside in Waleska, Ga.

Visitation is from 4pm-7pm on Friday June 12th at Darby Funeral Home in Canton, Ga. The funeral service will be at Waleska First Baptist Church at 11am on Saturday June 13th. The burial will be at the National Cemetery at 11am on Thursday June 18th.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to the Waleska First Baptist Building Fund are welcomed.

You can make a donation online at https://www.waleskafbc.org.