Ruby Lee Gilkerson Whitaker, 93 of Paris, KY formerly of Lexington, KY passed away Monday, October 23, 2023. She was born in Lexington, KY on May 28, 1930, to the late Bill and Bessie Planck Gilkerson. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ira E. Whitaker; daughter, Tammy Abell and a brother; Irvin Douglas Gilkerson.

She had a love for dancing and bluegrass music. She was in a bluegrass band called "The Next of Kin" and another band called "Ruby & 'Em." She also had a passion for quilting, making flower arrangements, jewelry, and other sorts of crafts. She enjoyed playing bingo and doing dealer trades for local dealerships.

Ruby is survived by five sons, Kenny (Susan) Kendall, Darrell Wayne (Nan) Kendall, Gary (Selma) Kendall, Michael (Brenda) Kendall, and Zonnie (Joyce Arvin) Kilburn; a daughter, Angie (Joey Stewart) Wade; a brother, Albert U.G. (Helen) Gilkerson; a sister, Joyce (John) Dean; thirteen grandchildren, Eric, Heather, Brady, Jeana, Neil, Nicholas, Kyle, Kara Beth, Nikki, Whitney, Alex, Joshua and Justin; and thirty great-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to your favorite charity of your choice

Inurnment services will be held Tuesday, May 28, 2024 in our Garden of Christus