Ruby Mae Scott Becknell, age 79, peacefully departed this life on April 23, 2026. She was born on March 21, 1947, in Alexandria, Louisiana, to the late Albert Scott and Vera Mae Kennedy Scott.
An only child, Ruby was raised in Alexandria, where she developed the strength, faith, intelligence, and compassion that would guide her throughout her life. A devout Catholic, she remained grounded in her faith and values and lived a life centered on love, service, and family.
Ruby excelled academically and graduated as valedictorian of St. James High School. She later attended Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she continued pursuing her education and preparing for a successful professional career.
Ruby married James F. Becknell Sr., and from this union two children were born. She dedicated many years of service to the telecommunications industry, working for Bell South, AT&T, Lucent Technologies, and Nokia until her retirement. She later became a substitute teacher in both public and private schools, where her caring spirit and wisdom touched the lives of many students. She also opened her own travel company, Three Generations, combining her business sense with her love for travel and adventure.
Ruby loved traveling, dancing, making crafts, and decorating for holidays. She especially treasured spending time with her beloved granddaughter.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Vera Scott; her former husband, James F. Becknell Sr.; her aunts, Willie Mae Brown, Dorothy Irving, Lillie Mae Johnson, and Erma Lee Kennedy; and her uncles, Leo Kennedy and Little David Kennedy.
Ruby Mae Scott Becknell leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Denise Newsham (Austin); her son, James Becknell Jr.; her granddaughter, Mya Newsham; and a host of cousins, extended family members, and friends.
A Holy Rosary Service will be held Sunday, May 17, 2026, at 5 p.m. at Rodney F. Byrd Funeral Directors, 1201 Preston Street in Richmond, Texas. Visitation will follow from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, May 18, 2026, from 11 a.m. to noon at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 507 South 4th Street in Richmond, Texas.