Ruby Ellen Mcglothlin Maxwell
Ruby Ellen McGlothlin Maxwell, 93, of Salem, passed away peacefully at her home on May 27, 2026.
Born on June 12, 1932, in Honaker, Virginia, Ruby was the daughter of the late Hattie Icyphen Hale McGlothlin and Patton McGlothlin. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 52 years, Ray Maxwell; sons, Don Maxwell and Scott Maxwell; brothers, Raymond Donald and Ralph; sisters, Faye, Mildred, and Ruth; and daughters in law, Sharon Maxwell Ayers and Regina Maxwell.
Ruby was a devoted wife, mother, mother-in-law, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and aunt whose family was the center of her life. She and Ray lovingly raised five sons, who brought her endless joy and pride throughout her life.
She faithfully served the community as a Roanoke County school bus driver for more than 20 years. Ruby was also a dedicated member of Riverside EMC and cherished the friendships she shared with the ladies of the Red Hat Society.
Left to cherish her memory are her sons, James R. Maxwell and wife, Gail, Charlie L. Maxwell and wife, Cathy, and Keith Maxwell and wife, Robin; daughter-in-law, Sherry Maxwell; nine grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and sisters, Pauline Harrison and Margaret Ann Cochran and her husband Danny. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law, Juanita Tatum, Shelby Maxwell, and Gay Maxwell, along with several loving nieces and nephews. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to her caregiver and adopted daughter, Terry Saul. Gratitude and love also extended to Ruth and Scott Johnson, her faithful neighbors, and Jonathan, her mailman.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. at Riverside EMC. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at the church with Pastor Brian Gordan officiating, with burial afterward at Sherwood Memorial Park.
The family would like to thank Good Samaritan Hospice, with an extra special thank you to Brittany, Morgan, and Sara.
In lieu of flowers Ruby’s wish was for memorial donations to be made to Riverside EMC, 1920 Lucas St, Salem, VA 24153.
