Ruby Thalmann, 75, of Hopkinsville, died of pancreatic cancer on Saturday, July 6, at her home. A native of Nashville, Tennessee, she was played basketball, tennis and softball for Eastern Kentucky University, where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in physical education. She went on to earn her master’s of education from Peabody College, where she coached the first women’s basketball team. She went on to become one of the first female truck drivers and owned several businesses, including a liquor store and convenience store in Nashville. She also was a founding board member of Grace & Mercy, an independent, faith-based safe home for women in crisis.

A celebration of life will be from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 14, at Grace & Mercy, 1507 S. Main St. Private burial will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Nashville. Dogwood Funerals & Cremations of Hopkinsville is assisting with the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to Grace & Mercy or Pennyroyal Hospice.