Ruby Carole Bare Britt Hayes, a beloved member of the Elizabethton community, passed away on November 22, 2025, at the Johnson City Medical Center. She was born on April 17, 1937, in Ashe County, North Carolina, to Arvil and Myrtle Phyllis Bare. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, service, and family devotion.
Mrs. Hayes is survived by her husband of 33 years, Dr. Steven Hayes, and her daughter, Cythina (Marty) Ferguson, of Cary, North Carolina. Her family includes granddaughters, Reese and Bennett Ferguson, as well as her grandson, Jeb Britt, of Utica, Kentucky. Additionally, her stepdaughter, Stephanie Richards (Ken) of Bloomington, Indiana, and stepson, Brian Hayes (Beth) of Kannapolis, North Carolina, also mourn her loss.
Ruby was predeceased by her parents, an older brother, Clay Delano Bare, and a son, Daniel Britt, of Owensboro, Kentucky. The family also acknowledges her special relationships with friends David Kelly and Sue Harden, along with her beloved brother-in-law, Johnny Britt.
A Life of Service and Community Engagement
After graduating from Elizabethton High School, Ruby trained as a medical laboratory technician and made significant contributions while working at Carter County Hospital. She later became an X-ray technician and served in various urgent care facilities in the Tri-Cities and Greeneville areas. Her professional dedication was paralleled by her commitment to her community.
For over 60 years, Ruby was an active member of the First United Methodist Church of Elizabethton. She contributed to the church choir and worked in preschool, nurturing young minds in her community. Her warm spirit and generous heart were reflected in her many talents, including homemaking, cooking, and sewing, where she was known for creating stunning Halloween costumes and designer-quality clothing.
Ruby’s interests extended beyond her professional life; she was an avid hiker and enjoyed traveling and flower gardening. Her zest for life and ability to create joyful moments with friends and family remained evident until her final weeks.
Celebration of Life and Legacy
A celebration of Ruby’s life will take place at the First United Methodist Church of Elizabethton on November 29, 2025, at 14:00. The service will be officiated by Reverend Mark McFadden and Reverend Raymond Amos Sr., with music provided by Mrs. Debbie Gouge, Mr. David Arney, and Mrs. Susan Heaton. The family invites friends to visit the church from 12:00 to 14:00 prior to the service.
After the service, a graveside ceremony will occur 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 suggests memorial donations be made to the First United Methodist Church of Elizabethton or the American Cancer Society. Those wishing to express their condolences can visit the Tetrick Funeral Home website at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com.
The Tetrick Funeral Home of Elizabethton is honored to assist the family in this time of mourning. For inquiries, the office can be reached at (423) 542-2232. Ruby Carole Bare Britt Hayes will be remembered for her loving spirit and the lasting impact she made on those around her.
