Ruby Drude Lee

Ruby Drude Lee, born November 26, 1923, in Wadesboro, LA and a resident of Ponchatoula, LA, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, March 28, 2023.  Ruby grew up on a farm and enjoyed a 40-year career with her first husband as a strawberry and vegetable farmer.  After retirement she substitute taught in Tangipahoa Parish Schools.  She participated in the creation of the Ponchatoula Country Market, was active in the St. Joseph's Catholic Church Rosary Altar Society and Kaycee Auxiliary, a member in a variety of clubs (Homemakers Club, Ladies on the Go, two card clubs: and organizations (Post 47 of the Veterans Auxiliary, Ponchatoula Chamber of Commerce, Strawberry Festival Queen judge).  She enjoyed sewing, painting, playing cards, dancing and socializing with friends and family.  

She is survived by her son, Dr. Kenneth Drude and wife Sharon Drude of Dayton, OH; granddaughter, Diane Neubauer and husband Dr. Alan Neubauer of Columbus Junction, IA; grandson, Kris Drude and wife Anna Drude of Dayton, OH; daughter-in-law, Sherry Drude; grandson, Justin Drude; great-granddaughter, Ryleigh.  Ruby is also survived by her stepson, Dr. R. Michael Lee and his wife Darlene Lee of Baton Rouge, LA and families.  

Ruby was preceded in death by her first husband, Carl Drude Jr.; her second husband, Robert Lee; her son, Ronald Drude; parents, Joseph and Bertha Shaffer; and sister, Pearl Manchack.

Family and friends are invited to attend the visitation at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, 100 W. Magnolia St., Ponchatoula, LA on Monday, April 3rd, 2023, from 9:00 a.m. until the funeral services at 11:00 a.m. Deacon Larry Melancon will officiate the services with entombment will follow in Ponchatoula Cemetery.

The family requests that masks be worn during the visitation and services.

Services and care have been entrusted to Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home.