Ruby Vandever

Ruby Mae Vandever, 89, of Shawnee, Oklahoma, passed peacefully from this life on July 3, 2026, at the home of her daughter, surrounded by the love of her family.

Ruby and her twin sister, Rose, were born on April 2, 1937, in Concho, Oklahoma, to Albert and Marie (Wakole) Stephens. They made history as the first set of twins born at Concho Hospital.

Ruby was proud of her Native heritage and was a devoted member of the Sac and Fox Nation throughout her life.

A faithful Christian, Ruby lived her life guided by her love of God, family, and community. She was a devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt, mimi, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and friend.

Her home was always open, her table was always full, and her heart was always ready to help someone in need. Whether feeding family, friends, or strangers, Ruby never met a person she couldn't care for.

Ruby shared many cherished memories fishing alongside her children and her beloved husband, Lonnie. She also enjoyed visiting the casino, where family members often joked that she was "so darn lucky." Ruby would likely say that God knew she needed a little extra money to help spoil all of her grandchildren.

On May 8, 1973, Ruby married the love of her life, Lonnie Vandever. Their marriage was filled with love, laughter, and dedication to family until his passing.

Ruby was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Marie Stephens; her husband, Lonnie Vandever; her children, Johns Stephens, Louise Allison and Cathy Cole; and her grandson, Kirby Allison.

Those left to cherish her memory and carry on her legacy include her daughter, Paula Winlock; her son, Gregory Stephens; her son and daughter-in-law, Mike and Sandy Hanes; her twin sister, Rose Thompson; as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and numerous extended family members and friends who were blessed by her love and kindness.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at Cooper Funeral Home, continuing through service time. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Cooper Funeral Home Chapel in Tecumseh, with Pastor Chance Stephens of Outreach Ministries officiating. Burial will follow at Tecumseh Cemetery under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home.

Following the committal service, the family invites all those in attendance to join them for lunch at the Sac & Fox Nation Multi-Purpose Building in Shawnee, Oklahoma.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." Ruby's love, generosity, faith, and unwavering devotion to family will be remembered and treasured for generations to come.