Ruby Bigelow's Obituary
Ruby Bigelow passed away on April 6th, 2025, in San Diego surrounded by her loving family after passing the 103-year mark. She was loved by many who will be lifted by the beautiful memories of her remarkable life.
Ruby was born near Oklahoma City on January 5th, 1922, daughter of Beulah and Frank Lewis. She was the fourth girl out of six siblings all of whom have preceded her in death. Ruby lived through the Dust Bowl and the Great Depression before meeting her husband Earl Bigelow, a Baptist minister, and moved to California in 1947. Ruby and Earl were married for 72 years, serving as a minister’s wife in many churches in California. After retirement they developed a Fishing Ministry serving hundreds of meals to those in need in San Diego County.
Ruby was multitalented. She studied music in college and served as choir director in several of Earl’s churches. She also worked in the Aerospace industry as an executive secretary and later as office manager in the medical field for a doctor in La Jolla. An accomplished seamstress, she sewed beautiful clothes for her daughters. Quilting and crossword puzzles were her favorite hobbies along with watching sports, especially baseball and football. Even at her age she did not shy away from technology, using a computer, tablet and iPhone. She had an elegant style, warm hospitality and a generous heart.
Ruby was predeceased by her beloved husband Earl Bigelow in 2016, and by her eldest daughter Sharon Pies in 2023. She is survived by her three daughters, Karen Berlanti, Cynthia Andrews (Kent), and Patricia McAdow (Tom), grandchildren Steve (Lisa), Natalie (Duncan), Matt, McKenna (Kevin), Austin and Morgan, and great-grandchildren Sean, Sammy, Elizabeth, Will, Maizy and Mack. Sadly, the world looks different now with her loss.
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