The ongoing recovery efforts following Hurricane Harvey postponed Texas Right to Life’s 20th Annual Celebration of Life, but Pro-Lifers across Texas still have a big reason to celebrate this week. Miss Ruby Zimmerman, Pro-Life advocate and Texas Right to Life receptionist, celebrates her 89th birthday on Sunday. Ruby has been a committed Pro-Life donor, volunteer, and prayer warrior for decades. Her dedication of Pro-Life volunteering and work since the 1970s is an inspiring example for us all.
Ruby is undoubtedly Texan. She was born and raised in Texas and takes pride in our state. She raised her three sons in Texas and today enjoys the company of her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Decades ago, while working for an answering service, Ruby witnessed the grief of a mother in the midst of an abortion. That experience changed the course of Ruby’s life. From that moment, she was a committed Pro-Life advocate, and she has never hesitated to speak on behalf of the vulnerable.
Ruby’s Pro-Life values are perhaps best captured by her words: “Life before life, life during life, and eternal life.” This saying shows Ruby’s steadfast commitment to the sanctity of human Life at all stages and her strong Christian faith.
Ruby first came to Texas Right to Life as a donor, then as a volunteer, and finally as a receptionist. However, the role that Ruby plays in the day-to-day workings of Texas’s oldest and largest Pro-Life organization cannot be summed up with the title “receptionist.” If you’ve ever called the Texas Right to Life office, you have probably been greeted by the sweet voice of Miss Ruby, our dedicated call screener. If you’ve ever received mail from our organization, chances are Ruby had a role in addressing, stamping, or mailing that letter, as she does hundreds every day. If you’ve ever visited the office, Ruby’s smile most likely greeted you. On the rare days Ruby is absent, three staff members have trouble maintaining Ruby’s incredible efficiency. Ruby urges other seniors to “give it their all” by volunteering in the Pro-Life movement. At 89, Ruby shows us there is no reason to stop advancing the Culture of Life.
Last year, at the Celebration of Life, Texas Right to Life fittingly awarded Miss Ruby the Lifetime of Service Award. The award was our humble attempt to put into words what Ruby’s commitment and Pro-Life witness has meant to our staff, donors, and Fellows. As we celebrate Ruby’s 89th birthday, we are grateful for the dedication and good humor she brings to our office every day.
Join Texas Right to Life in wishing Miss Ruby a happy birthday!