Ruby was born and raised in Panama, (Central America) the 4th of 5 children (4 girls and 1 boy). Ruby’s parents were also born in Panama to Jamaican parents. While Panama is a Spanish country, Ruby grew up in a predominant community of people from the Caribbean who migrated to Panama as laborers in the construction of the Panama Canal. To listen to Ruby, reminisce of this close-knit community listening and dancing to Soca, Reggae, Latino and Motown music, you get this visualization of an incredibly festive environment you most certainly wanted to be a part of! Ruby left Panama at age 20 to pursue her Bachelor of Science degree in the US after receiving her Associates Degree in Mathematics from the Canal Zone College in Panama.

Ruby attended Steven F Austin State University where she received her Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Computer Science, minor in Mathematics and was recruited by Equitable Life Assurance Society (insurance company) located in Rockefeller Center in the heart of NYC) as a computer programmer in their Actuarial Department. Ruby worked for Equitable Life Assurance for 7 years before venturing on her own as an Information Technology consultant for 2 years, while raising 2 beautiful daughters. Pfizer approached Ruby and made her an offer she couldn’t refuse, to work in their Computer Information Systems department as a Systems Analyst supporting Human Resources. After 25 years with Pfizer, Ruby retired as Director of Global HR Technology Strategy.

I asked Ruby, “what made you choose a career in information technology at a time when it was not popular for women and especially women of color?” Ruby stated her brother was studying electrical engineering and suggested she look into it; she said, “I did my research and never looked back!”

Ruby’s home was in Madison NJ, when she came to visit 2 cousins who lived here in The Villages and stated when she retired, she was coming to live here, and she did exactly that. Ruby lives in the Village of Tamarind Grove and has been a Village resident for 12 years now loving her retirement life! Ruby is active with high intensity workouts, Pilates, Core body workout and walking/jogging.

Ruby’s vision for her life here in the Villages is her continued volunteering efforts and spending time with her daughters and grandson at her leisure.

Ruby's volunteer activities are reflective of her passion in helping the communities surrounding The Villages: tutoring ESL (English as a Second Language) to all ages, tutoring 3rd grade math and 3rd grade reading and translating English/ Spanish for local schools. Ruby is a member of the Wildwood Wildcats Booster Club (supporting the Wildwood Middle High School), member of The Villages Apple User Group and also a member of the Spanish American Club as she enjoys celebrating both parts of her heritage. You go Ruby!