Mary Lou (Graves) Ruby

Mary Lou Ruby, age 87, born January 12, 1938, passed away on December 24, 2025.

     Mary Lou attended school in Gooding and earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Idaho. She met the love of her life while riding the bus to and from Soldier Mountain to ski. Ken and Mary Lou often bet on the weather at the ski hill. Mary Lou once promised she would never marry a farmer—and that was true until 1978, when Ken began farming the land around their home in Wendell while teaching at the College of Southern Idaho. Many years were spent picking rocks and moving the towable pivot from one field to another.

     Throughout her career, Mary Lou served as the Extension Home Economist for Gooding, Camas, Elmore, and Bingham Counties. She taught countless individuals through 4-H, cooking and canning classes, and by running a potato taste-test program.

     Mary Lou is survived by her husband, Ken Ruby; her daughter, Leslie (Greg) Priebe; her grandson, Ethan Priebe; and her granddaughter, Paige Priebe. Mary Lou loved having her grandchildren close, making sure Leslie kept the Life Flight membership paid in full when Ethan and Paige were riding the go-cart or four-wheelers. She delighted in watching them ski in the front yard and sneak raspberries from her bushes.

     Mary Lou will be remembered for her dedication to the Wendell United Methodist Church and The Gideons International.

     The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at DeSano’s and Auburn Crest Hospice for the exceptional care and support shown to Mary Lou and her family. You truly make a difference in people’s lives every day.

     On behalf of our family, thank you for your love, your prayers, and your presence today. Your kindness has brought us comfort during this difficult time, and we are deeply grateful.

     A viewing will be held on Friday, January 2, 2026 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Demaray Funeral Service - Gooding Chapel.

     A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at 11:00 am at the Hagerman Methodist Church in Hagerman.  A reception will follow at the Church.

     A private family graveside will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at the Wendell Cemetery in Wendell.

     Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of Demaray Funeral Service - Wendell Chapel.

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