Ruby Catherine (Brandy) Leuck Johnston , 93, of West Lafayette, Indiana, passed away peacefully, on August 24, 2025, at Zionsville Meadows Nursing Home, in Zionsville, Indiana. Born on August 31, 1931, in Wilmington, North Carolina, to the late George Carmen West and Aurelia West-Futch, Ruby lived a vibrant life filled with love, creativity, and service to others.
Ruby attended New Hanover High School, in Wilmington and pursued her passion for dance, studying ballet for two years at the Elliott School of Dance, in Baltimore, Maryland. A talented hair designer for over 60 years, she owned her own salons before retiring from JCPenney. Ruby's caring nature shone through as she visited the homes of the elderly to style their hair, bringing joy and dignity to those she served.
A woman of many passions, Ruby cherished her flower garden, loved cooking for her family, and found great joy in dancing. She was an avid collector of angels, reflecting her kind and gentle spirit. A devoted born-again Christian; Ruby loved the Lord and lived her faith with unwavering devotion. She was a dedicated member of Saint Mark Catholic Church, in Wilmington, before relocating to Indiana.
In 1953, Ruby married the love of her life, the late Robert A. Leuck, and together they built a beautiful family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert; her children, Kevin Sue Leuck (1957), Robert A. Leuck Jr. (Tony, 2017), and Carmen Leuck (2023); her brothers, Kenneth West, Gernie West, Lewis West, Ottis West, Jimmy West and Percy West; and her sister, Ruth Herring.
Ruby is survived by her sister, Jean Wolverton; her sons, Tim (Terry) Leuck and Todd Leuck; her grandchildren, Brandon Gordon, Jaret Leuck, Jessie Thayer, Griffin Leuck and Evan Leuck; and her great-grandchildren, Benjamin, Rebekah, Miriam, and Matthew Gordon, Zeke and Cale Leuck and Peyton and Parker Thayer.
Ruby's legacy of kindness, creativity, and deep faith will live on in the hearts of her family and all who knew her. A private graveside service will be held at Oxford Catholic Cemetery. Shoemaker Funeral Home, Otterbein, is assisting Ruby's Family. Visit www.shoemakerfh.com or Shoemaker Funeral Home- Otterbein, Indiana Facebook page to leave any condolences or to share a memory of Ruby.