Ruby Lee Martin Pope

Ruby Lee Martin Pope, a beloved daughter, mother, sister, and friend, passed away on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at the age of 75. Born on May 9, 1950, in the Loco Community of Lincoln County, Georgia, she was the cherished daughter of the late Cuthbert and Myrtle Partridge Martin. Ruby's early life was marked by her deep commitment to her faith, which she fostered from a young age upon joining Salem Baptist Church. She graduated from Lincolnton High School in 1968 and, soon thereafter, began a journey that would weave endless stories and friendships into the fabric of her life.

After marrying James H. “Jimmy” Pope, they moved to Hope Mills, North Carolina, where she and her husband built a life together until their return to her beloved hometown in 1988. With an entrepreneurial spirit, Ruby opened Main Street Video, a venture that not only showcased her vibrant personality but also served as a gathering place for friends and family. It was here that she continued to nurture old friendships while forging new ones.

Though health challenges emerged and limited her ability to visit loved ones in person, Ruby remained a constant presence in their lives through daily phone calls, always catching up on the latest local news. Her warmth and humor shone bright, as she was known to share a Bible verse and a witty remark tailored for each person she spoke with. 

She leaves behind a legacy of love and connection, survived by her daughters, Teresa Davis (Marion) of Martinez, Tonia Sweeney of Elberton, and Jamie Stafford (Jay) of Lincolnton. Ruby's family extends to her brothers, Clint Martin; sisters, Carol M. Reese of Lincolnton, Janet M. Smith of Lexington, Ga., Brenda M. Martin of Florida, and Bonnie Riddle of Florida. She was a proud grandmother to her grandchildren, Richard Davis, Candace Davis, Corie Smith, Trenton Slaton, Kaylee Sweeney, Draven Wolfe, Chloe Acuna, and Kayden Stafford, and she delighted in the joy brought by her 11 great-grandchildren. Ruby is preceded in death by her beloved husband, James H. Pope, as well as her brothers, Lonnie Martin and Randy Martin, and a grandson, Trevor Davis.

As we remember Ruby Lee, may we all carry forward the kindness and laughter she so generously shared with the world.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at 3pm at Salem Baptist Church. Her body will be cremated afterwards. The family will receive friends from 6pm until 8pm on Friday evening at Beggs Funeral Home, Lincolnton. 

Beggs Funeral Home 200 May Ave., Lincolnton, Georgia is honored to serve the family of Mrs. Ruby Lee Martin Pope.