Obituary for Ruby Cunningham Thomas

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of a Devoted Mother, Nurse, and

Minister and Author.

Ruby Cunningham Thomas, 77, of Fresno, Texas, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2026, at St. Luke's Hospital in Houston, Texas, surrounded by the love of her children and grandchildren.

Early Life and Education

Ruby was born on May 7,1948, in Kosse, Texas, to Isaac and Alma Ella (Smith) Cunningham. She attended elementary and middle school in Kosse before graduating from Jack Yates High School in Houston, Texas. Ruby's commitment to learning was evident early on as she continued to further her education throughout her life.

Professional Journey

In the early 1970s, Ruby began her career as a scrub technician at the VA Hospital in Houston, Texas. She soon pursued additional studies at Franklin Beauty School, earning her operator license. Demonstrating her enterprising spirit, Ruby successfully owned and operated three beauty salons—beginning in her backyard and expanding to brick-and-mortar establishments in the greater Houston area—where she supervised operators in hair, skin, and nail care.

Ruby's drive for excellence led her back to college in 1982, where she earned her Vocational Nursing License. For over 40 years, she served faithfully in the medical field, holding roles such as Charge Nurse at Town Park Nursing Home, working in the ICU at Herman Hospital, and caring for mothers and newborns at Memorial Southeast Hospital's postpartum, nursery, and exceptional care (ICU) units. At TIRR, she compassionately addressed patients with internal and external injuries as well as those who were ventilator dependent.

Faith and Ministry

Ruby devoted her life to Christ for more than 60 years. She was a resolute Sunday School teacher at New Bright Star Missionary Church under the leadership of Rev. Lester J. Scott; she served on the Nurse's Aide Board. In October 1982, she became a full-fledged member at St. Agnes Missionary Baptist Church, earning her Certificate License of Ministry to preach the Gospel of God. Guided by Dr. Gene A. Moore, she completed her basic Theology degree in 1994 and furthered her studies at Calvary Theological Seminary, attaining an Associate of Theology in 1997.

Ruby exemplified her faith as a Kingdom Citizen, understanding the church as a spiritual organism welcoming all who repent and follow the spiritual laws of God as magnified by Jesus Christ. She was a living example of forgiveness, grace, and love. Ruby has Authored 2 books Bread on The Table and The Awesome Power of A Transformed Life.

Family and Legacy

Ruby preceded in death by her parents, Isaac, and Alma Cunningham; her beloved husband Lawrence Thomas Jr. 1996; her brothers Isaac Cunningham Jr., Calvin Cunningham, and Wilbert Cunningham; and her sisters Eva J. Taylor, Mildred F. Cunningham, and Mary S. Watson.

Ruby leaves behind a loving family dedicated to continuing the legacy of love, forgiveness, and grace she modeled throughout her life:

•             Children: Cassandra Collins, Sebrena Thomas Lillie (Rodney Lillie Sr.), Cora Lynn Thomas, Lawrence Thomas III (Troi J. Thomas), Leal L. Thomas, Maya M. Thomas, and Samuel E. Thomas.

•             Grandchildren: Brandon Thomas, Serena Sanders, Douglas Curvey, Corena Thomas, Jasmine Sanders, Coretta Thomas, Larencia Thomas, Rodney Lillie Jr., Jordan Johnson, Alexis Thomas, Rodnisha Lillie, Elijah Peace, Tia Collins, Javeon Thomas, and Camora Thomas, Lauren Thomas, and Jade Thomas. Also 18 great grandchildren.

•             Ruby survived by her brothers Joe Cunningham (Ella Cunningham), Warren Cunningham and Paul Poloe (Sandra Poloe) and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and neighbors.

In Loving Memory

Ruby Cunningham Thomas touched countless lives through her unwavering faith, compassionate service, and boundless love for her family and community. Her legacy will endure in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.