Ruby Mae Keller, 95 of Russell died Wednesday, September 2, 2009 at Wheatland Nursing Center in Russell, Kansas.

Ruby was born on the family farm north of Luray in Jackson Township in Osborne County on July 10, 1914, the daughter of William Smith and Jeanie Grace (Whiteley) Wallace.  She grew up north of Luray and attended country schools.

Ruby was united in marriage to Leland Van Maupin on July 17, 1935.  This union was blessed with two daughters, Gloria and Lucille.  Leland preceded her in death on December 30, 1957.  Ruby was later united in marriage to Ernest R. Keller on November 24, 1962.  He preceded her in death on March 26, 1970.

Ruby was a homemaker and a devoted farmer’s wife.  Ernest and Ruby had a farm for several years around Smith Center before moving to a farm north of Luray.  She also assisted at the local nursing homes.

She was a member of the United Methodist Church of Luray and the Ladies Aid.  Later on in life, she enjoyed watching the 700 Club and other spiritual programs.

Surviving family include her two daughters, Gloria “Katy” Herrman and husband Raymond of Russell, Kansas and Lucille Jacobs of Smith Center, Kansas; brother, John Wallace and wife Louise of Luray, Kansas; 6 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Pearl, infant sister Ruth and sons-in-law Victor Jacobs and Stephen Heinen.

Celebration of Ruby’s Life will be held at 10:00 A.M. Friday, September 4, 2009 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell with Father James Grennan officiating.  Burial will follow at the Vincent Cemetery north of Luray.  Visitation will be from 9 AM to 8 PM Thursday at the mortuary.  A memorial has been established with Wheatland Nursing Center.  Contributions and condolences may be sent in care of the mortuary.  Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary is in charge of these arrangements.