Mrs. Viola Ruffin's Obituary
Viola "Vi" McClelland Ruffin was born on July 7, 1924 to the union of the late Mr. Jim McClelland and the late Mrs. Mary Barfield-McClelland. The eldest of nine children, Viola accepted Christ at an early age and later joined the East Mt. Moriah Church in Meridian, Mississippi, where she was baptized by Rev. W. M. Witherspoon. Viola received her formal education at Mt. Olive Grammar School (Bailey, MS) and later attended Harris High School (Meridian, MS). Over the years, Viola was active in many ministries of the church, a great singer, President of the Senior Choir, gospel quartet member and participant in numerous church plays. In the community, she was a devoted member of the Order of Eastern Star and the Heroines of Jericho Chapter in Meridian, MS. She worked tirelessly as a homemaker and was employed as a housekeeper and in support services at St Joseph Hospital for many years. In 1951, Viola married her love and long-time companion, Mr. Cleveland Ruffin. To this union was born their only child, Antionette Ruffin. Viola Ruffin departed this life on Monday, October 30, 2017. She is preceded in death by her husband, Cleveland Ruffin and her daughter Antionette Ruffin Sulton. She leaves to cherish her memories: her sister, Rosie M. McClelland of Meridian, MS; grandsons James (Tishounna) Sulton of Jackson, MS and DeRell (Latoya King) Sulton of Meridian, MS; special son, Rev. Randall Bohannon; special grandson, Kyle Chapman; and beloved niece-Annie Marie "Ree Ree" McClelland, all of Meridian, MS. Grandchildren: Joquez, Jaleya, Jamequin, G'Naysia, Gabriell, Jazlynn, Lauren and Kyson; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other loving relatives and friends. Our hearts and minds will always remember the way our sweet "Vi" loved and lived a life for Christ and her family. We will forever cherish memories of her special hand covered laughs, humming gospel hymns and unique joking nature. She will always be with us.
What’s your fondest memory of Viola?
What’s a lesson you learned from Viola?
Share a story where Viola's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Viola you’ll never forget.
How did Viola make you smile?