Ruby from Harlan County, Kentucky. Born in 1934, Ruby reflects on her life growing up in rural Appalachia, describing a simple and hardworking life centered around farming, family, and self-sufficiency. She recalls growing up without electricity, running water, and how her family raised and peddled crops to survive. Even now, Ruby continues to garden and raise livestock, which she credits for her good health at 87.

Ruby shares that she rents properties, using the income to support her family, particularly for education. She speaks proudly of her five generations of family members, some of whom have pursued higher education. Ruby also owns several hundred acres of land that have been passed down through generations and is committed to preserving it for her descendants. Despite the hardships of rural life, including the decline of coal mining in her region, she expresses contentment with her life, which she has lived according to her own values.

Ruby is deeply connected to her faith, playing "Amazing Grace" on her guitar every night as a spiritual practice. She believes that her health and longevity stem from staying active, eating homegrown food, and maintaining a positive outlook. Ruby concludes the interview by sharing her philosophy of life, which centers around self-reliance, staying busy, and following one's own path.