Mary F. Ruffin

Mary Frances Dozier Gorhman Ruffin, 87, passed away on June 28, 2020. She was born on December 29, 1932 to the late Nathaniel Hawthorne Dozier and Pearl Gorham Stith of Washington, North Carolina. Pearl Gorham later met and married Rev. Eddie T. Stith which adjoined the blending of siblings, Eddie T. Stith (Doretha), deceased, Anna Stith Smother (Rev. James Smothers), and Hattie Stith Adams (Robert), deceased. Mary Frances received her education from the Washington Colored High School and shortly after graduating met and married the late Kelly Lee Ruffin, Sr. on July 3, 1948 The union produced 10 biological children and adopted daughter: Linda P. (deceased, Bobby (deceased), Wayne (deceased), Darian (deceased), Marvin (Timolin), Cornelius (Jackie), Kelley (Diane), Donald (Alice), Ronald (Wanda), Linda (Santiago), and Frances (Larry). Mary Frances was employed at the Jewish Families Health Center until her retirement as a Home Health Nurse in Baltimore, Maryland but her true passion was owning "Francesca Finds", an antique vintage shop in Washington, North Carolina. Mary Frances, loving known as "Nana" or "Mother" to many was a gift from God. She was a delight to many and a joy to all who come to know her for her zest, nurturing spirit, and her love of family. She accepted Christ later in life, becoming a member of Concord Baptist Church where she remained active until her death. Mary Frances loved being with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She was blessed to have spent so many years spoiling her 15 grandchildren: Kuwania, Shericka, Marvin, Jr., Anthony (Little Neal), Daryl, Anthony, Ashley, Damon, Larrell, Jamyle, Sierra, Jasmine, Keldon, Javele, Trinette, Irving and Ronald, Jr. (deceased). She was equally blessed to have had the opportunity to spend precious moments with her 26 great grandchildren that she equally adored. Mary Frances had a host of bonus relatives that she loved dearly including Bernard Graddy, (deceased) Iris Ruffin, and sister-in-law, Mildred Gardner. She also had the occasion to spend the last few years with a group of special friends from the Arlington Estate Co-op as well as her Concord Baptist Church Family.

Tributes

Mary F. Ruffin

December 29, 1932 - June 28, 2020