Ruby Nell Story

Ruby Nell (West) Story was received into her heavenly home by her Lord and Savior on September 18, 2022 (only three days away from her 90th birthday). We as her family are grieving, but also so grateful that she has passed from her life here on earth (which had become painful and confusing) into her eternal life in heaven where she is whole and well and full of rejoicing.

Nell was preceded in death by her mother and father; first husband, Bob Smith; second husband, Bill Story; granddaughter, Lynne Christianson; sister, Lavon Sepolio; and stepdaughter, Linda Story.

Nell was born to Jesse Reagan West and Ora Beatrice (Baker) West on September 21, 1932, in Lovelady, Texas. Her early years were spent in the Houston area. She graduated from Aldine high school.

After becoming a military wife, her life included many physical moves and new beginnings, giving birth to her three children in three different states. After each move, Nell had the amazing ability to settle quickly into a new house, transforming it into a warm, welcoming home.

Raising her young children, she was a stay-at-home Mom; very involved in all school and church activities! She was a great cook and wonderful homemaker. Her now grown children are so very thankful for her godly influence, her sacrifices, and her excellent love and care. She was also a lot of fun!

As her children got older, Nell served as her church’s secretary, helped her first husband in an insurance business, and eventually owned a baby and maternity boutique in Brenham.

In the later years of her life, she lived in Waco, very happily married to her second husband Bill Story. She had such great memories of their time together, and their travels (especially cruises). She enjoyed new friendships, and spending time with Bill’s family, whom she loved deeply.

At the time of her death, Nell lived in New Braunfels. She was a follower of Jesus Christ and was a member of Oakwood Baptist Church. Her health kept her from attending the last few years, but before that she was an active member of the “Ladies Young At Heart” class; whose members have continued to visit her, bring flowers and share their love and encouragement.

Nell’s family was her greatest joy and focus. She was the most loving wife, Mom, Grandma, and Great-Grandma.

She is survived by the following family members who meant so much to her.

Her sisters are Cora Lee Bennett and Barbara Jean Garcia.

Her children are Debbie Christianson (George), Mike Smith (Pam), and Lisa K. Nolen.

Her grandchildren are Lane Christianson, Cody Christianson (Ashley), Callan Slaughter (Brent), Katy Sceney (Brad), Erin Conley (Scott), Clint Horsley (Ashlee), Rusty Smith (Jenny), and Logan Smith.

Her great-grandchildren are Bear Christianson, Layth Christianson, Noah Christianson, Mia Christianson, Palmer Slaughter, Baron Slaughter, Cohen Slaughter, Elle Sceney, Isla Sceney, Ryan Conley, Bodhi Conley, Brooklyn Horsley, Caleb Horsley, and Rorey Smith.

Her stepsons are Mark Story (Peggie) and their family, and Alan Story (Jaye).

Pallbearers will be Lane Christianson, Cody Christianson, Clint Horsley, Logan Smith, Brent Slaughter, Bob Bennett, and Tom Yarnell.

The family would like to express tremendous gratitude for the wonderful love and care given to Nell by her hospice nurse Tracey Canamar, and by her caregivers: Annlyn Ritchie, Jaylan Rodriguez, Caia Ritchie, Sherria Ball, Estela Castenado, and Myra Ybarra.

Nell was funny, giving, and so loving. She was frequently described as a “classy lady”! We as her family will miss her greatly but are thankful for the time we had with her, and the legacy of love and faith that she has left us. It also comforts us to know that we will see her again one day.

Well done, Ruby Nell Story!

We love you.

Funeral services will take place Thursday, September 22, at noon at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery.

Memorial gifts may be made to Oakwood Baptist Church’s Benevolence Fund at 2154 Loop 337, New Braunfels, TX 78130.