Celebrating Our Resident of the Month

Roy H. Ruby was reared in Yazoo City and Belzoni, Mississippi. He married Patricia Randall, and together they shared 63 beautiful years of marriage while raising their two children, Mary Randall and Robert Ruby.
He earned his bachelor’s degree from Mississippi State University in 1961, followed by a master’s degree from Mississippi State University in 1966. In 1970, he earned his doctorate from the University of Mississippi.
In addition to his academic accomplishments, Dr. Ruby served his country in the United States Army Reserve as active duty guard and reserve, retiring with the rank of Major after 21 and a half years.
Dr. Ruby devoted his professional career to Mississippi State University, where he served in several distinguished leadership roles. He was Dean of the College of Education for three years, a Vice President of the university for more than 17 years, and served simultaneously as a Vice President and Dean for a year and a half.
In 2002, he delivered the commencement address at Mississippi State University. He retired from the university in 2004 after decades of dedicated service. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Mississippi State named one of its residence halls Ruby Hall in his honor upon his retirement.
Following his retirement, the Mississippi Board of Trustees called Dr. Ruby back to serve as Interim President of Mississippi State University.
In 2010, he was honored as both Mississippi State University’s Alumnus of the Year and ROTC Alumnus of the Year.
Dr. Ruby also served as Grand Marshal of the Starkville Christmas Parade, reflecting on the respect and admiration he earned within the community.
Throughout his life, Dr. Ruby has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to education, leadership, military service, and his community, leaving a lasting legacy at Mississippi State University and across the state of Mississippi.