On Friday, July 15, 2016, Mr. Jerry Ruffin, 79, formerly of Greenwood, MS, passed away at North MS Medical Center surrounded by his family. Jerry was born August 5, 1936 in Ellisville (Jones Co.), Mississippi and grew up there. His parents were L.W. Ruffin, Jr. and Sarah Alice Brown Ruffin. He received his BS Degree in Medical Technology from the University of Southern Mississippi. He and his wife, Mary Patsy Ragsdale Ruffin, raised their family in Greenwood, living there for over 40 years. He was a member of the U.S. Army serving in Korea from 1958 to 1960. Jerry was employed as Laboratory Medical Director at Greenwood Leflore Hospital for 35 years.
Jerry was an active member of Bissell Baptist Church where he served as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, and treasurer. He was devoted to the church, his wife, and his family. He loved being outdoors and building things.
A celebration of life service will be at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, July 17, 2016 in the Tupelo Chapel of Holland Funeral Directors with Bro. Roger Smith officiating. Graveside service will follow at White Zion Cemetery. Visitation will be today (Saturday), from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to service time.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 54 years, Mary Patsy Ragsdale Ruffin; an infant daughter, Jennifer Robin Ruffin, and his 5 siblings. Jerry leaves behind his cherished family, a daughter, Mary Alice Ruffin Pritchard of Tupelo; his son, Jerry Douglas Ruffin and wife, Amie and grandsons, Will and Davis Ruffin, all of Olive Branch, MS; as well as several nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind dear friends and his wonderful Church family at Bissell Baptist Church.
Pallbearers will be Will Ruffin, Davis Ruffin, Sammy Corder, Freddie Harris, Herbert Bennett, and Robby Ruffin. Jerry Loden will serve as an honorary pallbearer.
Memorials may be sent to Bissell Baptist Church, 4662 W. Main Street, Tupelo, MS 38801.
