Ruby Nuesch Riggan Smith, age 86, of Leola, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2026. She was born on December 25, 1939, to James Charles (Joe) Nuesch and Charlene Hudson Nuesch of Malvern, Arkansas. Ruby was a devoted member of Leola Missionary Baptist Church, where she lovingly taught Sunday School and AWANA for many years. She also served her community with dedication, working for the City of Leola as recorder/treasurer for 25 years. She found her greatest joy in the simple, beautiful moments of life, especially the time she spent surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Family was the center of her world, and she cherished every laugh, story, and memory made together. On warm summer days, she loved watching the kids swim, and always had poolside milkshakes ready for them to enjoy. She had a creative and caring spirit, often spending quiet moments crocheting thoughtful handmade gifts for those she loved. She enjoyed gardening, took pride in canning the vegetables she grew, and loved sharing them with family and friends.. Each spring, she looked forward to picking daffodils, a small tradition she shared with her grandchildren that reflected her appreciation for life’s simple joys and the beauty of nature.

She is survived by her children: Terri (Steve) Davis of Leola, Arkansas; Todd (Angie) Riggan of Sheridan, Arkansas; and Traci (Ray) Lindsey of Magnolia, Arkansas.

She is also survived by her grandchildren: Justen (Brittany) Davis of Malvern, Arkansas; Drue (Jenna) Davis of Malvern, Arkansas; Erin (Austin) Williams of East End, Arkansas; Emilee (Dustin) Reid of Sheridan, Arkansas; Evan Lindsey (fiancée Hannah) of Magnolia, Arkansas; and Meghan Lindsey of Magnolia, Arkansas. Her memory will also be cherished by her great-grandchildren: Paislee, Nash, Berklee, River, Rylee, Riggan and Rustin. She is survived by her brother, Fred Nuesch (Joan) of Kingsville, Texas, as well as two nieces, extended family members, and many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husbands, Donnie Riggan and Ben Smith.

Funeral service will Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at 10:00 AM at Leola Missionary Baptist Church in Leola with Bro. Johnie Brewster and Bro. Dusty Lewis. Burial will follow at Leola Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday night at the funeral home from 5:00-7:00 PM.

Pallbearers will be Justen Davis, Drue Davis, Evan Lindsey, Dustin Reid, Austin Williams, and Kenneth Wallace.

Honorary pallbearers will be Steve Caldwell, Randy Groomes, James Edward “Bookie” Riggan and members of the Leola Fire Department.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Leola Missionary Baptist Church.