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COLUMBUS— Bobby Dean Ruff, 65, of Columbus, passed away Thursday afternoon, October 12, 2023, at Upstate Community Hospice House.

A native of Polk County, he was the son of the late Lawton Ruff and Florence Hudgins Ruff. Bobby was a graduate of Polk Central High and later began working in the construction industry. Bobby became a licensed general contractor owning and operating Bobby Ruff Construction for over 30 years. Bobby was a member of Big Level Baptist Church and most recently attended Pleasant Grove Baptist Church (Polk County). He was devoted to his family and loved them dearly. He also loved helping others. He was always willing to step in and help anyone who needed him. His compassion for others was evident by the mission trip he took to the Philippines, his work as a Gideon, and countless hours of voluntary service to organizations and individuals in his community and beyond.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Bertha Ruff, and a brother, Troy Ruff.

Surviving are his loving wife of 47 years, Janet Durham Ruff; one daughter, Leann Wilson (Derick) of Rutherfordton; one son, Steven Ruff of Columbus; four grandchildren, Bryson Laughter, Tyler Laughter, Kensie Wilson (His favorite granddaughter) and Colton Wilson; two brothers, Ray Ruff (Jean) and Joe Ruff (Shirley) all of Rutherfordton; one sister, Faye Hodge of Rutherfordton; two nieces, Sandra Duncan of Rutherfordton and Karen Ruff of Charlotte; one great-nephew, Adam Duncan of Rutherfordton.

The family will receive friends Sunday, October 22, 2023, from 2:00 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. in the McFarland Funeral Chapel.

A celebration of Bobby’s life will follow at 3:00 p.m. Sunday at the funeral chapel with Reverend Jimmy Cox officiating.

At other times, the family will be at the home.

Memorials may be made to the Polk County Chapter of Gideons International.

An online guest register is available at mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com

McFarland Funeral Chapel & Crematory
Tryon, NC