There is a profound sadness across Donegal today after the passing of Ruby Druce, Ireland’s oldest citizen.
The Castlefinn woman passed peacefully yesterday, aged 109.
Born in 1915, Mrs Druce lived a remarkable life and inspired thousands with her zest, wit and words of wisdom.
Ruby celebrated her 109th birthday on New Year’s Eve in her native Castlefinn, where she lived with her niece Carmel and Carmel’s husband Martin.
Ruby had been Ireland’s oldest known living resident since August last year, but often shrugged off mentions of her age.
She belied her years, keeping active and walking whenever she could, and amazingly, she lived independently until she was 98.
Ruby Druce in the 80s.
Her life spanned across an era of immense change. She lived through two World Wars and two pandemics, contracting both the Spanish flu as a child and Covid-19 in 2023, despite not having any symptoms.
A constant was her love of Daniel O’Donnell. The Donegal star and his wife Majella paid Ruby a surprise visit last year to share a song.
Ruby was a star in her own right, and was selected as the local celebrity to perform the official switch-on of the Castlefinn Christmas lights in 2022. Each year on her birthday, her home would be flooded with cards and well wishes from friends.
Daniel and Majella O’Donnell with Ruby Druce in May 2024
109 yr old Ruby Druce celebrating her birthday with a cake and her 9 Presidential Medals. (North West Newspix)
Born to George Crawford and Elizabeth (née McBride), Ruby was the eldest of five children. Her working life began at Porter’s Shirt Factory at the age of 14, where she remained for 48 years. She married Jim Druce in 1956, but Jim sadly passed away 14 years later.
Last year Ruby also lost her beloved niece, Margo Butler, who had cared for her in Letterkenny for 10 years.
Following Margo’s passing, Ruby moved back to Castlefinn, and while she was more than content in Letterkenny, there was a sense of her life coming full circle as she returned home for her final chapter.
Ruby is survived by a wide circle of nieces, one nephew, grand nieces and nephews and great grand nieces and nephews.
Rest in Peace, Ruby.
Ruby Druce with the Sam Maguire Trophy in 1992 at the tender age of 76. (North West Newspix)
2019: 103 yr old Ruby Druce with her god-daughter Donna and niece Margo being welcomed to Century Cinemas by proprietor Mark Doherty on her first visit to the movies since 1944. (North West Newspix)
The following is Mrs Druce’s obituary notice:
The death has taken place of Ruby Druce, at the age of 109, peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family.
Predeceased by her parents George and Lizzie, husband Jim, brothers Geordie and James, sisters Maggie and Molly, her niece Margo and nephew Tony.
Survived by her nieces Carmel and Claire, and nephew Seamus and extended family and very close friends.
Ruby will be waked at the home of her niece, Carmel Harran, Castlefinn, F93 E67R from 6pm – 9pm Friday 21st March, and Saturday from 12noon until 9pm.
Funeral will take place on Sunday, 23rd March, at 12pm in St. Mary’s Church, Castlefinn, followed by interment in the adjoining cemetery.
Family time please on morning of the funeral.
Family flowers only please, donations in lieu to Donegal Carers care of Kennedys funeral directors or any family member.
May her gentle soul Rest in Peace.
