Mrs. Geraldine Nelson Ruffin's Obituary
Geraldine Nelson Ruffin was born on September 30, 1928 to Willie Nelson and Margaret Yarell Nelson in Lauderdale County, Toomsuba, MS.
Geraldine accepted Christ at an early age and united with Little Hope Baptist Church in Toomsuba, MS. Her grandfather, Isiah Nelson was one of the church officers in 1902.
Geraldine completed her 12th grade education at Stevenson Vocational School. Later, she moved to Meridian, where she met and married Clint Ruffin, Sr. Their union would be blessed with two children: Beverly Ruffin & Clint Ruffin Jr; and a beautiful step daughter, Betty Hosley.
Following her Christian upbringing, her family united with the Fifth Street Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Pack and later under the leadership of Rev. I.C. Day who served for 22 years. Throughout her Christian journey, Geraldine held many positions which included Church secretary, Sunday School teacher, Mission President and Acting Superintendent of Sunday School. She faithfully enjoyed her service for the Lord’s Kingdom. She had been under the leadership of a few of God’s most chosen servants: Rev. Donnie Hinton, Bishop William C. Brown, Dr. John Griggs II; and was presently under the leadership of Rev. Johnny Sims at New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church. Geraldine retired from Winn Dixie Grocery chain where cooking and baking were her special gifts for many years. She always showed great love and compassion for all whom crossed her path.
On Friday, April 3, 2020, the gates of Heaven opened, welcoming Geraldine to enter. Geraldine was preceded in death by: both parents; husband, Clint Ruffin, Sr.; and half sister, Ella Mae Smith.
She leaves to celebrate her new life in heaven and to cherish her earthly memories: her son, Clint Ruffin Jr.; daughter, Beverly Ruffin Lewis (James); step daughter, Betty Hosley; three grandchildren: Phyliss Hosley, Cassandra Hosley and Chandler Ruffin; six great-grand children : Justin Hosley, Aleshia Hosley, chandler Ruffin II, Kaylee Monzano Ruffin, Jaliyah Marie Ruffin, Raquel Reylynn Ruffin; most of all, a wonderful and supportive church family whom she loved dearly; wonderful neighbor, ms. Carrie Holman; special friends: Marie Madison, Mrs. Carolyn Johnson & family; Adrian Mosley & family
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