Ruben S. Southward, Jr., 58, of Paducah passed away Saturday, November 3, 2012, at 11:55 a.m. at McCracken Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Paducah.

Ruben was a member of House of Hope Ministries and a veteran of the US Navy, serving during the Vietnam Era. He attended Paducah Tilghman High School and was employed as a cook at various area restaurants.

Ruben is survived by two daughters, Lakisa Southward of Chicago and Sierra Scott of Paducah; three sons, Ramone Ware of Louisville, Dialo Starks and Ruben Cross, both of Paducah; three sisters, Eloise Southward and Patricia Drew, both of Paducah and Barbara Gary of Seattle; one brother, Jerry Southward of Paducah; significant other, Brenda Arnold of Paducah; one aunt; and several nieces, nephews, cousins.

Ruben was preceded in death by his parents, Ruben S. Southward, Sr. and Juanita Mae Irving Southward.

Funeral services will be held at House of Hope Ministries on Saturday, November 10, 2012, 1 p.m., with Reverend Michael Pryor officiating. Burial with military honors will be held at Mound City National Cemetery in Mound City, Ill. Tuesday, November 13, 2012, at 12:30 p.m.

Friends may call at House of Hope Ministries on Saturday from 11 a.m. until the funeral hour.

Pettus-Rowland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.