Uncrowned Community Builders

Ruby Lee Benton was born on April 29th to the late Reverend and Mrs. James Benton. The third of five children, she attended Public School #75 and graduated from Hutchinson Central High School. After an educational hiatus, during which she married Charles E. Grandberry, II, and raised two sons, Charles III (Tony) and Kevin (Veny), she returned to the world of academia. She graduated from Erie Community College in 1982. In addition, she took courses from the University of Buffalo, State Teachers College, and Trocaire College. She also taught "Human Growth and Development" to high school and junior high students and to young people at community youth centers as well as other special groups in Erie County and the surrounding area.

Although retired as a full time nurse, she has remained active by channeling her energy in a variety of positive ways. As a member of the Mary B. Talbert Civic and Cultural Club for over thirty years, she has served as Past President, Parliamentarian and chaired the Annual Awards Tea. This event recognizes 8th grade students on the threshold of high school who have demonstrated meritorious improvement in character and academics. Her volunteer work includes Meals on Wheels, Pastoral Care, Soup Kitchen, and fundraising activities for Cancer Research. Ruby has also worked as a volunteer receptionist at Buffalo General Hospital and donated her time as a Counselor at Haven House, a crisis center for abused women and children.

Through all the years of being a dutiful wife, loving mother, tireless worker and faithful friend, one thing has remained constant; her faith in God. As a lifelong member of Mount Olive Baptist Church, founded by her father, her contributions, such as Choir Director and Usher Board member, are too numerous to list. She continues to sing in two choirs and has enjoyed singing melodic lullabies to her two grandchildren, Marques and Raven.