Ruby Dean (Bryant) Hancock, 85, of Batesville, passed away on Wednesday, August 20, 2025.
She was born June 25, 1940, to Freeman and Nellie (Hall) Bryant.
Ruby loved the Lord with all her heart and was a Godly example of a Christian lady. She served in ministry alongside her husband, Patrick Hancock, for nearly 40 years. Together, they served as pastor in four churches throughout Arkansas. She spent many hours in church kitchens making peanut brittle, baked goods, and dinners for church functions and fundraisers.
She was known for her baking, especially homemade pies and cakes. Friends, family, and church members were often given their favorite desserts for birthdays or special occasions.
She was an avid reader of both the Bible and Christian fiction. She also enjoyed solving puzzle books, working jigsaw puzzles, and playing board games. In her later years, she hosted Thursday Game Days and prayer meetings with beloved friends every week.
Survivors include one daughter, Angela Castleberry of Batesville; one daughter-in-law, Lesa Hancock of Batesville; six grandchildren, April Casey (Harold), James Tims (Brandi), Elizabeth Smith (Will), Bryan Hobbs (Nancy), Nathanael Hancock (Tiffany), and Drew Hancock (Savannah); 25 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.
She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Rev. Patrick Homer Hancock; one son, Rev. Chris Hancock; three brothers, William ”Bill” Bryant, Morris Bryant, Bobby Bryant; and two sisters, Katherine ”Kay” Spigner, and Ireta Richardson.
Pallbearers are Drew Hancock, John Hodge, Gary Britten, Jr., Mike Loy, Will Smith, and Doug Brooks. Honorary pallbearers are David Simmons, Bob Davis, and Jim Leonard.
Visitation will be held at Roller-Crouch Funeral Home on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 10:00 am, with funeral services following at 11:00 am with Rev. Johnathan Abbott, Rev. M.D. Parmley, and Rev. Nathanael Hancock officiating.
Burial will be at Shadowlawn Cemetery in Malvern, Arkansas, at 4:00 pm, with Regency Funeral Home assisting.
In Lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Church UPCI, 240 White Dr, Batesville, AR, 72501
