Born April 20, 1910, in Houston County, Texas, Ruby Sue Wilcox Clifton was educated in Grapeland, Texas and studied at Sam Houston State Teachers College and received a degree from the University of Houston. Her life was devoted to education. She served the Houston Independent School District for 38 years, finishing her career as Assistant Superintendent of Board Services.  In 29 years of HISD Board meetings, she had a perfect attendance record for which she was honored with a commemorative plaque.

Her greatest pride was her namesake Ruby Sue Clifton Middle School, which was dedicated in 1979.  Miss Ruby taught by example, and in her 70 years of service to our community, she was called upon again and again to provide her graceful yet strong leadership in times of need.  Ms. Ruby Sue Clifton passed way on March 5, 2005 at the wonderful age of 94.