JUNE 2020 PARKER COUNTY TODAY
Those of us lucky enough to be born and grow up in Parker
County understand that we have an added blessing – in
addition to being gifted with that well-known Texas maverick
spirit as well as those that come with being born in America.
Parker County roots penetrate our hearts and souls and reach
into the depths of every journey we take throughout our lifetime.
And, so it was with Ruby.
Born to Walter B. and Bertie Lou Phillips Fife in Weatherford,
Texas, she was the sixth child of eight, and grew up in Parker
County. Childhood days were care-free in the Aledo area,
where she attended school until the second grade, then the
family returned to Weatherford, where she completed high
school. Later, she married Carl Thornhill, moved to a ranching
community around Wichita Falls, creating her home and
attending classes at Midwestern University. Throughout her life,
she returned for visits to ensure her children and grandchildren
embraced their Parker County heritage.
Recently, I was reminded that our date of birth and passing
just mark time on earth, but the ‘Dash’ in between represents
life’s journey. Ruby’s journey was short in years, but rich in
sprit, style and substance! To understand her ‘dash’, you must
understand those carried in her heart.
Ruby’s family and special friends formed her heart’s ‘circle
of love’. The infinity of that circle includes her children and
grandchildren: C. Richard Thornhill, Taylor Ann and Corey
Elrod and daughters Emma LeAnn, Riley Elizabeth, Ella Rose,
and Stephanie and Todd Wood and daughters Kenlee Beck
and Kylei Brock. Her first love originated with her family,
those who were integral in the tapestry of her journey: Parents
Walter B. and Bertie L., siblings - Barbara Ann, Betty Burkhart,
Gary Walter, Ruth and Craig Swancy, Lynn, Larry Don and
Rhonda. Nieces, Nephews and their families were in her heart:
Tiffany, Chris, Matt and Kimbell joined by ‘the greats’ Karlye
Michelle, J. Blaine, and Walter Don. And, her ‘special friends’
that were welcomed as part of her big family: Jeannie Stewart,
Ty Cannedy, and Ray Pace. Her circle included her husband,
Carl, aunts, uncles and cousins galore! A family tucked into
her Texas-sized heart. She was a member of the Church of
Christ and always remembered those she grew-up around at the
Hillcrest Church of Christ and the East Side Church of Christ.
She attended Life Church with her granddaughters.
In its infancy, Ruby’s ‘dash’ began with parents teaching
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Ruby Lee Fife Thornhill
May 8, 1958 — December 22, 2019
A Life and Legacy Tribute
Created By Granddaughters Emma, Riley and Ella of Austin & Kenlee and Kylei of Weatherford
the importance of God, family, and country.
Childhood was steeped in developing those
well-known Parker County Family code of ethics
that focused on duty, respect, responsibility,
accountability, integrity, achievement, empathy,
education, humility and philanthropy. Those
teachings formed a foundation and influenced
Ruby’s life-time journey. She instilled these ethics
into the lives of her children and their families.
Through her leadership and mentoring, these
ethics were introduced to others that crossed
her path. She enjoyed career achievements as
a business owner, partner and management
roles. Ruby gave of her talents and resources,
inspiring others to participate in giving back.
She organized care packages for our military