Mrs. Grace Ruff,
      I would like to extend my sympathy to you and your family.  I attended
Ousley along with Tommy Langston, Bobby & Sally Barfield, Whit Wallace
and others.  I lived across from Ousley behind Mt. Carmel Christian Church.
      I have lived in Colorado since 1957 and only get back to Ga. once in
a while.  
      I hope you are doing well.

My best to you,
Marie (Born) Lucas
Colorado Springs, CO

We moved to the Candler/Glenwood area in 1949 and were invited by our neighbors to attend Ousley UMC.  I remember playing with Diane, Billy and Carol and Rev. Ruff taking me (along with everyone he could fit in the car) to Bible School.  My Dad used to take him fishing and I believe I remember that he always seemed to have a good time.  I will always remember his soft spoken voice, his strong handshake and his ability to remember you and always called you by name.  Your family always meant a lot to me.  Rev. Ruff also performed my marriage on Feb. 18, 1977 at your home in Decatur (Emory) area.
Love and Condolences to Mrs. Ruff and the entire Ruff family.  Carol (Ezell) Gardiner

Dear Grace and Family, I had the pleasure of being one of his students at Mableton High School.  Several of us will miss him terribly.  We had the honor in having him at some of our class reunions.  Grace and the family will be in our prayers along with condolences being sent your way.  I would love to keep in touch with you Grace, you have my e-mail address.  With Deepest Sympathy and Love from Mae and Buddy York and the Class of 1947.

We will always remember Brother Bill. He was an inspiration for all of us.  Love,  Carole and Hank Perchik .

We are keeping your family close to our hearts .  We will continue to keep you In our thoughts and prayers.

Sent with much love

Jeff & Marty Carter

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.


I am sad to know of the Reverend Ruff's death.  I was glad, however, to have had the chance to visit with him and Mrs. Ruff last May, and I'm especially glad now.  We had a couple of very nice visits, reminiscing a bit, during the days I stayed with their daughter, Dianne.  My heart and arms wrap around Mrs. Ruff and the entire family in my love and my prayers join the thousands of others this week in being thankful for the life of this great and valuable man and the causes that he stood for.

I have known William Hugh all my life, our parents were next door neighbors in Cobb County; Sam & Carrie Ruff and Holmes & Nan Guess. His first funeral was in 1944 and that of my Grandpa Geo Guess, since then my parents, sister, brother, aunts and uncles.  So many outstanding stories were told to me especially those when he was young, living in Paulding County and attending Harmony Grove Church.  He was a faithful, supportive and wonderful person. 
                                                                         Karleen Guess Baldwin

I was just a child when the Reverend Ruff was our minister at Ousley Chapel.Our family later moved to Cartersville and I remember he was a well know minister at that time. My recall is that my Mother knew him and his wife before that time. He did several revivals at churches I attended over the years and was a minister that made you thing about the sermon afterwards. His life was meaningful to many.

Pop Pop you will be deeply missed. 

Regards

Bill was one of the leaders of our conference who has made a lasting impact of growth and caring. Although one legacy is the North Ga Conference, for clergy the greatest legacy is family and their continued Christian growth and service.  In that he left an incredible legacy.

In addition to being a close friend in the ministry, Bill served as my District Superintendent twice. He was always helpful and supportive in every possible way.  I thank God for his influence in my life.  May God richly bless Grace and the entire family during these days of bereavement.  My love goes out to each of you.

   What cherished memories I have of William Hugh "Bill" Ruff!  When reflecting on his famous stories of Paulding County and Harmony Grove Church, I smile.
   William Hugh always remembered his "roots."  For many years, he and his family returned to Harmony Grove on the third Sunday in August as he delivered the Homecoming message to a packed house.  It was easy to see this setting had given foundation to his life as a man and minister.
   William Hugh grew-up with my dad, James William Ruff.  Later, William Hugh officiated my dad's funeral on December 19, 1986.  William Hugh helped my family through a difficult time.  Like so many, I will miss him, and like so many, I will always love him.  What a powerful impact William Hugh Ruff has had on humanity!

Blessings and love,
Karen Ruff

Rev. Ruff Will be missed by all who knew him. He performed our wedding ceremony in 1990. He was a man I knew and respected since I was in the eighth grade when I became friends with Pam. He was always a joy to be around. A positive force in many lives. Love to the Ruff family as you celebrate Rev. Ruff's life.

I knew Bill's family, was pastor to his sister, and have his colleague in the ministry for 56 years. We will miss him.

I remember Brother  Ruff  from his time in Thomaston. He was a great teacher,and I recall today some of his lessons. He lives on through us.

To the Ruff family...may God comfort you and bring you peace during this time of bereavement.

I remember this good man from his service to Thomaston FUMC.  He was the best preacher I have known. 

Steve Carswell
Hartwell, Ga

Diane & Pat...
 Anne & I are so sorry about you dad...She's always had such sweet things to say about "Mr. Bill & Miss Grace" while at Mulberry... Our thoughts & prayers are with you all.

OBITUARY

William H Ruff

August 4, 1917 – December 5, 2013

Bernstein Funeral Home and Cremation Services

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