Maxine DeLois Cowan Ruffin, age 80, passed away peacefully on October 9, 2024. Born on March 26, 1944, Maxine was a devoted Mother to her four children: three sons, Carlton Ruffin, Keith Ruffin, and Ray Ruffin. One daughter, Lynne Ruffin. A dedicated “Mother” to Mia Ruffin and MonaLisa Ruffin whom she affectionately called “The Girls®. One special niece, Mrs. Cynthia Cowan Fayton. She leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness.
Career- oriented she worked for 30 years for Civil Service with the U. S. Navy beginning her career at the Commissary and advancing over the years to positions in Medical Records, Psychiatry, and finally as a Tumor Registrar at the Navy Medical Center in Portsmouth, Virginia. She served on associations and committees for cancer patient research, documentation of statistics, and outreach in her professional role and as secretary and president at the local, regional, and national levels while championing the window of opportunity for herself and others. Her career afforded her the fringe benefit of traveling nationwide to train other Registrars certified by The American College of Surgeons Association of Tumor Registrars. Her commitment and passion inspired others around her. Proud graduate of B.T.W. Class of 1962.
Family and friends remember Maxine for her baking and other charitable acts. Whether it was holidays or birthdays, Maxine found joy in feeding others. With her warm smile, compassionate heart, and sense of humor, she never met a stranger, welcoming many people from all walks of life into her home.
Maxine is survived by her sister Barbara Cowan Finney as well as a host of family and friends. As we bid farewell to Maxine, let us remember her unwavering faith, may her soul rest in eternal peace, and let’s not say “good-bye” but “salute” for being a soldier in God’s Army. Until we meet again: “SALUTE!”
Condolences(8)-
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Shamika Anthony says
October 14, 2024 at 10:31 amMy deepest condolences to the family. Miss Maxine will be missed!
Michelle says
October 17, 2024 at 10:34 amMaxine, a job well done on this earth. You were a friend to EVERYBODY! Go get your crown…REST
Chaplain Kayla says
October 21, 2024 at 5:51 pmMaxine, May you rest in peace and rise in glory! I loved getting to know you, laughing with you, and praising God with you. Thank you for inviting me to journey with you in the last months. I will always remember you! Mona Lisa and family you remain in my prayers
Carolyn Ruffin-Wood says
October 21, 2024 at 8:00 pmVery sorry for your loss. Maxine will always be fondly remembered because she was always kind to everyone – even those who weren’t fair to her. I can say that she fought a good fight. She gave love and respect to all. Because of her sweet, loving compassion, she will be forever remembered. Family, keep your heads up.” Memories of Maxine will always remain in our hearts.
Love y’all.
Aunt Faye
Mary E. B. Summerville says
October 22, 2024 at 10:15 amMy two Sisters, Elizabeth and Elnora, my love and Condolences go out to you on the Homegoing of your Sister. Forgive the lateness. I have been so distracted over my own Issues, not realizing you were also going through. May God continue to comfort you also Brother Marty. Rest in Peace Sister Maxine.
Lynne Mercer and Willena Hopson says
October 22, 2024 at 10:17 amMs. Maxine was a very amazing woman and a special friend. I was blessed to know her and her kindness through her friendship with my mother Willena. My mother and I want to wish the family our deepest and heartfelt sympathies and condolences and we know she is enjoying her mansion and walking on streets paved in gold! We will love and miss Ms. Maxine forever and we thank God and will cherish the time he allowed us together!
Darryl Love says
October 22, 2024 at 11:14 amI’m going to miss you 😢
Rev.Dr.W.Michael Smith says
October 24, 2024 at 7:10 amTo the family, you have my prayers and blessings. Stay strong in the Lord and wait on Him!