January 25, 1937 – November 23, 2025
Ruby Fern Provence, born on January 25, 1937, in Virgie, Ky., was a compassionate, loving, and loyal woman who dedicated her life to her family and church. Fern, as she was affectionately known, passed away on November 23, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and dedication. Fern was a devoted wife to her husband, Joe Provence, for over 68 years, after marrying him on November 1, 1957. Their relationship was a testament to their undying loyalty and love for each other.
Fern was a homemaker by occupation, but her heart was always in service of others. Whether it was fishing with Joe after retirement, quilting with her friends, or tending to her beautiful garden, Fern put her heart and soul into every task. A dedicated member of Landmark Baptist Church in Anderson where she sang in the choir, taught Sunday school and Vacation Bible School. She was a former charter member of Bethel Baptist Church in Noblesville. Her travels took her from her birthplace in Kentucky to Noblesville, where met and married Joe Provence. She then traveled with Joe to Arkansas and Kansas to visit family, and Arizona where she went on mission trips to the Navajo Nation. Fern’s compassion shone through in her dedication to family and church, a testament to her loving nature.
Fern is survived by her husband, Joe Provence; their children, Bryan (Debbie) Provence, and Beverly (David) York; her grandchildren, Amanda York, Tyler (Kelli) Provence, and Erin (James) Copeland; as well as her great-grandchildren, Graisyn York, Lukas and Raegann Copeland, and Finn, Eddie, and Will Provence. She is also survived by her brothers, Dean (Angel) Damron and Reed (Ruby Jean) Damron; and several nieces and nephews.
Fern was preceded in death by her parents, Ballard and Maxie Damron; her brother, Paul Damron; and sisters, Mary King and Anna Blevins.
Visitation for Fern will be held from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at Hartley-Dunnichay Funeral Home, 209 W. Jackson St., Cicero. The funeral service will follow at the same location at 1 p.m. with Pastor Gary Woodring officiating. Services are under the direction of Hartley Funeral Homes – Cicero. The funeral service will also be livestreamed at my.gather.app/remember/ruby-fern-provence.
In memory of Fern, we encourage you to share your memories and upload photos to the memorial page. Your tributes will serve as a comforting reminder of Fern’s compassionate spirit, loving heart, and her unwavering dedication to the people she cherished.
Condolences: hartleyfuneralhomes.com