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In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Ruffin family on Cash App ($RuffRyder36) to honor Minnie's life and legacy. On May 11, 2026, the world bid farewell to a remarkable woman, Ms. Minnie Bertha Ruffin, who peacefully departed this life at 2 PM at Beaufort County Hospital. Born on July 25, 1952, in the serene town of Windsor, North Carolina, Ms. Ruffin lived a life that was a testament to love, resilience, and devotion. Minnie was the beloved daughter of the late Jelene and Charlie Ruffin Sr., and the cherished granddaughter of Alberta Walton and Lonnie Ruffin Sr., all of whom predeceased her and surely welcomed her with open arms into the eternal embrace. Her legacy of love and warmth continues through her surviving family members, including her devoted brothers, Gayleon Ruffin of Portsmouth, VA, and Charlie Ruffin Jr. of New York. Minnie was a loving mother to her son, Toronto Ruffin of Teachey, NC, and her daughter, Natasha Ruffin of Greenville, NC. Her nurturing spirit extended to her six adored grandchildren: Jaquan Ruffin of Hampton, VA, Dajhan Ruffin, and Dakarrai Ruffin, both of Philadelphia, PA, Jamiya Ruffin of Greenville, NC, Bryson Ruffin of Tarboro, NC, Kayleigh Ruffin of Kinston, NC; a host of cousins, including Ruth Bazemore, Bruce Crowell, Lois Gilliam, Sylvia Walton, and Doris Day, along with numerous close friends and extended family. Though Minnie never married, she took immense pride in raising two wonderful children, instilling in them the values of kindness, integrity, and perseverance. Despite leaving school in the tenth grade to support her family, Minnie never lost her passion for education, beginning to take classes later in life to pursue her GED. Her work ethic and commitment were evident as she labored in the cotton fields and later found a vocation in housekeeping, where she touched many lives with her kindness and dedication. While Minnie was not a formal member of a church, her faith was unwavering. She found solace and inspiration in gospel music, particularly on Sundays with Bobby Jones Gospel and Lee Williams. Her life was a harmonious melody of devotion to God, family, and community. She cherished simple pleasures, such as watching Tyler Perry movies on BET and enjoying her favorite foods, including tuna subs from Subway and her beloved Mountain Dew and Dr. Pepper. Minnie will be remembered as a beacon of love and compassion. Her infectious spirit and cherished memories will forever linger in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know her. Her gentle presence will be deeply missed, yet her legacy of love and faith will continue to inspire and uplift all she touched. In Minnie's honor, let us embrace the love she shared and let it guide our lives with the same grace and kindness she embodied. Rest peacefully, dear Minnie, knowing your life was a testament to love, and your spirit will forever shine brightly in our hearts.

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Ms. Minnie Ruffin

July 25, 1952 - May 11, 2026