Ruby Dell Bivens

Ruby Dell Bivens was born on March 15, 1938, to the union of Wade and Carrie Owens Bivens in the small, yet friendly city of Sparkman, Arkansas. Nurtured in a Christian environment, he gave his life to Christ at a young age and joined Ebenezer Baptist Church. He grew up in Sparkman and graduated from the Sparkman Training School. Ruby Dell was a retired employee of the Ray White Lumber Company. Like so many local men from Sparkman, it was there he developed lasting friendships. Although he was small in stature he gained much respect by treating the guys, the way he wanted to be treated. He spent countless hours and days working to provide for his family. Lightn’ or Pooh Baby was his trademark nick-names. Some of his favorite pastimes included hunting and gardening; he raised some of the largest watermelons in Dallas County. He loved to fish and often dredge through foliage for a better fishing spot at the water’s edge. His greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends. He was not a man of many words, but of few words and of many virtues. He always maintained a humble spirit and mild disposition throughout his life. We will remember his smiles, his love, and infectious laugh. On Wednesday, March 18, 2015, after 77 seasons of life he traded time for eternity. He was preceded in his passing by his parents and his siblings, Buddy Bivens and Ollie V. Allen. He will be remembered by his children: Charles Bivens of Sparkman, Roger Bivens of Milwaukee, WI and Roger Perry of Arkadelphia; the mother of his children, Carolyn Matlock Bivens; fourteen grandchildren; a special nephew, Jimmy Henderson; his neighbor and special friend, Annie Bell Jefferson. He also leaves numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Home going service will be held on Monday, March 23, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Sparkman. Rev. L. A. Craig will officiate and burial will follow at Mt. Carmel Cemetery. Public visitation will be Sunday, March 22, 2015 from 2:00pm-5:00 p.m.