Ruby Mae Walters

Ruby Mae Walters, 86, of Cerro Gordo, Illinois, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2026. She was born on November 26, 1939, in Oakley, Illinois, to Charlie and Mamie Carter.

Ruby will be remembered for her warmth, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to her family. She dedicated her life to being a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, finding her greatest joy in the people she loved most. Her kindness, selflessness, and gentle spirit touched the lives of all who knew her.

Ruby enjoyed life’s simple pleasures. She loved shopping, especially visiting antique stores in search of unique treasures. She enjoyed having her nails painted and took pride in always looking her best. She was a devoted St. Louis Cardinals fan and a lifelong admirer of George Jones’ music. Some of her favorite things included a warm bowl of ham and beans, sharing meals at Cracker Barrel, and spending quality time with her family. Above all else,
Ruby cherished every moment she spent with her grandchildren and great- grandchildren, who brought immeasurable joy to her life.

She is survived by her children, Donna Walters of Cerro Gordo, Illinois; Mamie Collingwood of Decatur, Illinois; and Glenn (Donna) Walters of Peoria, Illinois. She is also survived by her six grandchildren: Amanda (Ivan) Temelkov of St. Peters, Missouri; Cory Waldrop of Cerro Gordo, Illinois; Sara O’Laughlin (Zach Chapman) of Oakley, Illinois; Travis O’Laughlin of Decatur, Illinois; Garrett Walters (Lauren Rawson) of Columbia, Tennessee; and Grayson Walters (Hadley Smith) of Pensacola, Florida.

Ruby was also blessed with five great-grandchildren: Hudson and Emerson Temelkov, Addie Chapman, Kamdon Catt, and Gwen Walters, all of whom brought her immense pride and happiness.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 54 years, Richard Walters; her parents, Charlie and Mamie Carter; her sister, Nettie Fenn; and her brothers, Les Carter, Ben Carter, Roy Carter, and Dean Carter.

Visitation will be held Tuesday June 23rd from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Brintlinger & Earl Funeral Home, 111 South Madison Street, Cerro Gordo, Illinois, with a brief memorial service immediately following.

Ruby will be laid to rest at Lake Bank Cemetery in Latham, Illinois, where she will be reunited with her beloved husband, Richard, and laid to rest alongside him and her parents.

The family is grateful for the kindness, prayers, and support extended to them during this difficult time.

Donations can be made to the Humane Society of Decatur and Macon County.

Ruby leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, compassion, and dedication to family. Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. The love she shared, the values she instilled, and the memories she created will be cherished by her family for generations to come.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family in care of Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Homes at www.brintlingerandearl.com.