Ophelia Teresa Ruff

On May 31, 2023, after a brief illness, Ophelia Teresa Ruff, daughter of John and Ophelia Toomer, received her wings and went to walk with the angels. She was preceded in death by her loving husband and lifetime partner, Larry Ruff.

At the time of her passing, Ophelia was 83 years old. She was the eldest sister to Margaret, Gwen, Louise, William, Andrew, and Deward.

Her greatest love was her family. She’d always go out of her way to ensure that all she loved were cared for and accounted for.

She was more than happy to be the central figure in the lives of her family. Anyone who knew her knew she was the star in their eyes, and that’s all that ever mattered to her.

Self-motivated, Ophelia reinvented herself many times during her career, from being a duly licensed cosmetologist in California to retiring as an employee of the Columbia, SC Metro Transit Authority. Irrespective of her career path, she was always the first to arrive and the last to leave and would not rest until the job was complete.

Ophelia is proudly survived by her three children, seven grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews. A private family burial will be held.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.caughmanlexington.com for the Ruff family.