Ruby Jean Middleton

“A Beautiful Life, A Gentle Spirit, and a Legacy of Love”

Some lives are measured by the years they are lived, while others are measured by the love they give, the kindness they share, and the lives they touch along the way. Ruby Jean Simpson Middleton lived a life that was rich in compassion, overflowing with kindness, and distinguished by her gentle spirit. She was an extraordinary woman whose greatest treasures were not found in material possessions, but in the love of family, the joy of friendship, and the privilege of caring for others.

On Friday, October 30, 2026, Ruby Jean peacefully transitioned from this earthly life at Twin Rivers Health and Rehabilitation Center in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. She was 79 years old. Although her earthly journey has ended, the beautiful memories she created and the love she so freely gave will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Ruby Jean’s life began on Christmas Day, December 25, 1946, in Gurdon, Arkansas. She was born to David Simpson and Margaret Louise Harper Simpson. What a wonderful Christmas gift she was to her parents! On a day when the world celebrates the gift of love, a precious daughter entered their lives, destined to become a gift of love and kindness to so many others.

From an early age, Ruby Jean possessed a tender heart and a sweet disposition. She accepted Christ as her personal Savior during her youth, establishing a foundation of faith that would remain an important part of her life. She was a faithful member of New Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Gurdon, Arkansas, where she embraced the fellowship of believers and the Christian principles of love, kindness, and service.

Following the completion of her high school education, Ruby Jean discovered that one of her greatest gifts was her ability to care for others. She found purpose and fulfillment in helping those who needed a gentle touch, a comforting word, or a compassionate heart. She devoted several years of her life to working as a Certified Nursing Assistant, providing care in private homes and various healthcare institutions.

For Ruby Jean, caregiving was more than an occupation; it was an expression of who she was. She understood that sometimes the greatest medicine was kindness, the greatest comfort was compassion, and the greatest gift one could offer was simply being present.

Ruby Jean was a woman of quiet strength, gentle wisdom, and remarkable understanding. She had a special way of making others feel heard, valued, and loved. Her words were often filled with wise counsel, and her heart was always open to those who needed someone to listen. Whether offering encouragement during difficult moments or sharing wisdom gained through life’s experiences, she had a way of bringing comfort and reassurance.

She understood that not every problem required an answer and that sometimes the most meaningful thing one could do was simply listen. Her listening ear, thoughtful advice, and sincere concern for others made her a trusted confidante and cherished friend.

Ruby Jean shared the sacred bond of marriage with Wallis Middleton. Throughout her life, she valued the importance of family, treasured the relationships she cultivated, and appreciated the simple blessings that made life meaningful. She was a loving wife, devoted mother, proud grandmother, beloved sister, and faithful friend.

Her life reminds us that greatness is not always announced with grand achievements or public recognition. Sometimes greatness is found in the quiet acts of love that make another person’s burden lighter. Ruby Jean’s greatness was reflected in her compassion, her patience, her wisdom, and her willingness to give of herself for the good of others.

She was preceded in death by her loving parents, David and Margaret Louise Harper Simpson; her brother, Tommy R. Shepherd; and two sisters, Lela D. Ussery and Alva Lois Simpson.

The beautiful legacy of Ruby Jean Simpson Middleton will continue through those who loved her most. She leaves to cherish her precious memories her devoted husband, Wallis Middleton of Gurdon, AR; three loving children, Samantha Payne Dickerson of El Dorado, AR, Gregory Hardamon and Micheal Hardamon both of Gurdon, AR; three beloved grandchildren, Elijah Larry of Gurdon, AR, Samiah Blalock and Ashley Blalock, both of Arkadelphia, AR; and three precious great-grandchildren. Her memories will also be treasured by her sister-in-law, Varrie M. Hamilton of Memphis, TN; her close friends, Guinn Hughes, Gloria Mark Brazil, Yvonne Buford, and Delores McPeak; along with a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends whose lives were enriched by her presence.