Ruby Smith Gibby, 85, of Morganton, passed away on Monday, March 16, 2026 at her residence following a period of declining health.

Ruby was born January 20, 1941 in Burke County, the only child of the late James Elbe Smith and Vernie Pritchard Smith.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in passing by her husband, Jerry Herbert Gibby and a son-in-law, Farrell Kelly Reece.

Those left to cherish her memory include her daughter, Debra Gibby Reece; her grandchildren and the apples of her eye, Dustyn K. Reece (Cameron), Jara Reece Seagle (Chris), Landon G. Reece (Charity), Logan M. Reece (Emily), and Quinn A. Reece; greatgrandchildren and “sweeties,” Austin Fisher (Kelsey), Tristan Hildebran (Macie), Caden Reece (Chloe), Bryson Seagle, Graylin Reece, Rhett Herman, Kenzie Herman, Lillian Fisher, Ellie Reece, Eoin Kincaid, Lochlan Reece, Huntley Fisher, Brock Herman, and Linville Kincaid; her beloved cat Sampson; a dear childhood friend, Gloria Suttles; as well as numerous extended family and friends.

A private graveside service will be held at Burke Memorial Park on Friday, March 20, 2026 at 1:00 PM with Rev. Dale Ellis officiating.

Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory is assisting the Gibby family.