Linda Joyce Ruff peacefully exchanged her earthly body for her eternal home on December 2, 2024,
surrounded in spirit by the love of her siblings who preceded her in passing.

Born on January 5, 1946, in Newberry, SC, Linda Joyce was the sixth of seven children born to
the late Calvin Ruff Sr. and Mildred Jones Ruff. She was lovingly reunited in eternity with her
siblings: Arnold Ruff, Janie C. Ruff, Barbara Jean Ruff Holland, Alice Benjamin, Carl A. Ruff,
and Calvin G. Ruff Jr.

Following the untimely loss of her mother, Linda and her sisters Janie and Barbara Jean were
raised in Greensboro, NC, by their Aunt Elizabeth and Uncle Zeb Coleman. She attended
Greensboro public schools and proudly graduated from Dudley High School in 1963. Linda later
pursued some coursework at A&T State University. She built her permanent home in
Greensboro, where she lived a life filled with faith, family, and friendships that enriched her
journey.

Linda found her professional calling with the United States Postal Service, where she dedicated
over 30 years of service. Known for her warm smile and professionalism, Linda approached her
work with a level of care and pride that left a lasting impression on colleagues and customers
alike. After retiring, Linda embraced her well-deserved freedom, spending her days enjoying her
favorite activities.

Faith was the cornerstone of Linda’s life. A devoted member of Trinity AME Zion Church, she
faithfully attended the 8:00 a.m. services and cherished the Sunrise service each Easter. This
tradition, shared with her brothers after their retirement, became a meaningful and enduring part
of her spiritual life.

Linda Joyce was a true matriarch and a source of love, strength, and support to all who knew
her. As the “baby sister,” she cherished her role in the Ruff family and cared for her siblings in
both sickness and health. To her nieces and nephews, she was a trusted confidante and wise
counselor. To her friends, she was a loyal companion, always ready to lend a helping hand or a
listening ear, no matter how exhausted she might have been.

Of all her roles, none brought Linda greater joy than being a mother to her beloved
son, Kenneth G. Ruff. She was his unwavering supporter, attending all his music performances
with pride. Whether braving the cold in stadium seats or basking in the warmth of a concert hall,
Linda’s love and pride for Kenneth were boundless.

Linda’s legacy also lives on through her remarkable dedication to the Blue and Gold Marching
Machine (BGMM) at North Carolina A&T State University. As a cherished “band mom,” she spent decades sewing uniforms, assembling flags, and ensuring students were well-fed and cared for. Whether assisting with last-minute fixes or cooking meals, Linda’s selflessness left an indelible mark on generations of students.

Linda Joyce Ruff leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and generosity. She is survived by her
devoted son, Kenneth Graham Ruff; sisters-in-law Alma Bell Ruff, Hannah Delores Ruff,
and Valeria Fleming Ruff; and a host of cherished cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family,
and friends.
Linda’s life was a testament to grace, kindness, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.
She will forever be remembered as a phenomenal woman whose light shone brightly and whose
love will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. May she rest in eternal
peace.

A Graveside Service will be held Sunday, December 8, 2024 1pm Lakeview Memorial