Ruby Jean Handel

Ruby Jean Handel, age 83, of Mt. Carroll, IL, passed away March 2, 2025. Cremation rites have been accorded and a private family memorial gathering will take place.

Ruby was born February 14, 1942 in Savanna, IL, the daughter of Voris and Delores (Groharing) Corbett. She attended Center Hill and Mt. Carroll schools. On December 23, 1958, Ruby married Richard “Dick” Handel. They would go on to have four children.

A lifelong resident of Mt. Carroll, Ruby worked a number of local jobs. She worked with the City of Mt. Carroll, the Veterinary Clinic, WCCI Radio, Harrell Electric, Lumber Mart, and drove school bus for several years.

Ruby was active with the Mt. Carroll Fire Department, where her husband served for many years, and volunteered her time with the Senior Center. She was an avid reader, and loved taking care of her yard; mowing and tending to her flower gardens.

Above all else, Ruby was a woman who loved her family. She leaves behind a legacy of devotion as a mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She is survived by her three sons, Russell Handel, Ronald (Reena) Handel, and Ryan “Digger” Handel, all of Mt. Carroll; daughter, Roxanne (Matt) Schaffner, of Mt. Carroll; seven grandchildren, Avery, Alex, Carly, MJ, Devon, Brady, and Seth; five great-grandchildren; brother, Jerry (Kandi) Corbett, of Mt. Carroll; and special niece, Jodie Sipe. Ruby is preceded in death by her parents, Voris and Deloris, and husband, Dick.