On behalf of the Sint Maarten Library Board and staff, we express our sincere condolences to the Bute family and their friends on the passing the Sint Maarten’s national treasure Dame Ruby Bute.
Affectionately known to all as Ms. Ruby was a painter, storyteller, and writer of the island of Saint Martin/ Sint Maarten and very active member in our community, and we wish much strength to all during this difficult time.
We come together to remember and honor the life of a remarkable individual who played an invaluable role in shaping the path of our beloved library. Ruby Bute made significant contributions to the Philipsburg Jubilee Library Foundation - the Sint Maarten Library’s journey through educating and keeping the culture of the Sint Maarten Community flourishing.
The Foundation will always fondly remember Ruby Bute for her pivotal role to the library throughout the years, through her participation in many activities; from Storytime, Storytelling, Summer Reading Programs, Art & Craft, Art Workshops the last one being in July 2017 at her Art Gallery “Ruby Bute Silk Cotton Grove” prior to hurricane Irma.
In 2013, during the Philipsburg Jubilee Library Foundation's 90th Anniversary calendar event titled “Appreciation Awarded Ceremony: A Literacy & Cultural Evening,” Ruby Bute received the 2013 Literacy Award for her contribution to the below -mentioned literacy and art programs.
Dame Ruby left in 2022 an impactful treat of two powerful poems and with her remembrance of her first storytelling in the library to the audience, which was a precursor to the unveiling of the launching of the library’s new name, library card, logo and website held during the 99th Anniversary. Her last contribution to the library was in the form of participation during the collaborative Reading Festival Sint Maarten Edition October 2024.
Her unwavering dedication to uplifting the community through her spoken and written words was truly remarkable, and she consistently volunteered her time to make a difference. Ms. Ruby will forever be remembered for her iconic phrase, “Ma child,” delivered in her poetic voice—a sentiment cherished by all who knew her.
As an accomplished author, she generously donated several of her works to the library, for which we remain deeply grateful. Ruby Bute was a well-known and respected member of the community and one of the key facilitators to the Philipsburg Jubilee Library Foundation's support and cooperation.
The Sint Maarten Library, join the general community in reflecting upon the void left by the passing of Dame Ruby Bute, let us remember the countless lives she touched, the stories shared, and the knowledge she helped uncover.
