Ruby M. Thompson-Olaye

Ruby Maria Thompson-Olaye, 75, was born July 22, 1948, in the parish of Clarendon, Jamaica, West Indies to the late Joseph and Muriel Thompson. She was the fifth of ten children. She was preceded by brothers, Winston and Roy Mitchel and sisters, Daisey Thompson, Rose Margaret Thompson and Gwendolyn Alberta Rose.

Her early education began at Toll Gate All Age school in Clarendon. After completing All Age school, she did odd jobs before starting a Basic school in the community at the age of seventeen (17). She was so good at what she did that her dad built her a permanent structure for housing the children she taught. She knew then that teaching was her calling and, not one of her children from the Basic school entered elementary school at an entry level. Ruby migrated to the United Stated of America in 1970. While working as a domestic helper, she continued her education at the City University of New York, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in English Education and, a Master’s degree in Special Education in 1980 and 1981 respectively. She worked as an educator in several school districts including New York City Public Schools, Houston Independent School District and Atlanta Public Schools. With her leadership skills, passion for evangelism and deep love for Jesus, she held many positions in the church: they included, Sabbath School Superintendent, Personal Ministries Leader and an Ordained Elder.

Ruby enjoyed cooking healthy foods (she loved to eat), reading and shopping. She was known for her generous spirit and had donated to over forty (40) charities each year.

There was never a dull moment around Ruby; she was full of fun and laughter, and she loved people, especially children. She was an inspiration to many. She will also be remembered for her passion when explaining the scriptures, and even a little child could understand them.

She leaves to cherish her memory two sons, Segun (Renee) Olaye and Toyin (Daniela) Olaye. Grandchildren: Mycca, Myles and Gabriela. Sisters: Salome Destine-Francis, New York, Evelyn Allen, Lakeland, Fl, Cynthia Thompson, Jamaica. Brother: Joseph Thompson, Jamaica. Cousin-sister: Wena Grant, London, England. A host of nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends.

Ruby is gone for now, sleeping until that great resurrection morning when the trumpet will sound and the dead in Christ will rise first (which Ruby will be in) and those of us who remain faithful will join her on her flight to heaven where there will be no more parting.

Rest in peace Mom, sister, aunty, cousin and friend. Memories of you will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Personal Ministries Department of Hope Tabernacle Seventh-day Adventist Church in Snellville, GA (Adventist Giving).

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