Ruby Carole Bare Britt Hayes, a cherished member of her community, passed away on November 22, 2025, at the Johnson City Medical Center. Born on April 17, 1937, in Ashe County, North Carolina, she was the daughter of Arvil and Myrtle Phyllis Bare. Her loss is deeply felt by her family and friends, many of whom remember her for her warmth and kindness.
Ruby is survived by her husband of 33 years, Dr. Steven Hayes, along with her daughter, Cythina Ferguson of Cary, North Carolina. She leaves behind two granddaughters, Reese and Bennett Ferguson, and a grandson, Jeb Britt of Utica, Kentucky. Additionally, she is mourned by her stepdaughter, Stephanie Richards, and stepson, Brian Hayes, along with several nieces, nephews, and close friends.
A Life Dedicated to Community and Family
Ruby graduated from Elizabethton High School before pursuing a career in healthcare as a medical laboratory technician at Carter County Hospital. She later trained as an X-ray technician and worked at multiple urgent care facilities throughout the Tri-Cities and Greeneville regions. Her professional life was marked by a commitment to helping others, a testament to her generous spirit.
Beyond her career, Ruby was an accomplished homemaker and a passionate cook and seamstress. She was known for creating designer-quality clothing and Halloween costumes that delighted her family and friends. Her love for flower gardening and hiking showcased her joyful engagement with life, which continued until the last weeks of her life.
Ruby was an active member of the First United Methodist Church of Elizabethton for over 60 years. Her involvement included singing in the church choir and working with preschool children, reflecting her dedication to nurturing the next generation.
A Celebration of Life
The family will hold a celebration of Ruby’s life at the First United Methodist Church of Elizabethton at 2 p.m. on November 29, 2025. Reverend Mark McFadden and Reverend Raymond Amos Sr. will officiate the service, with musical contributions from Debbie Gouge, David Arney, and Susan Heaton. Friends and family are invited to gather from 12 to 2 p.m. prior to the service.
Following the memorial, a graveside service will take place at Happy Valley Memorial Park. Active pallbearers will be chosen from family and friends, while honorary pallbearers include John Britt, David Kelly, and Terry Bare.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Ruby’s memory to either the First United Methodist Church of Elizabethton or the American Cancer Society. The family encourages those wishing to express their condolences to visit the Tetrick Funeral Home website at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com.
Tetrick Funeral Home of Elizabethton is honored to assist the family during this difficult time. For inquiries, the office can be reached at (423) 542-2232. Ruby Carole Bare Britt Hayes will be remembered fondly for her loving spirit and contributions to those around her.
