Debra Darlene Ruffin

On Wednesday, February 11, 2026, our beloved Debra Darlene Ruffin transitioned into eternal rest. Debra and her twin sister were born on December 10, 1952, to the late Clarence N. Wise and Thelma D. Wise. She was preceded in death by her husband, Christopher E.

Ruffin, brothers Clarence N. Wise Jr. (“Tuffy”), Reginald N. Wise, and Steven N. Wise.

Affectionately known as “Twin” or “Debbie,” Debra grew up in Southwest Washington, DC, until 1960, when the family moved to Southeast DC. Growing up, Debra was kind, sensitive, and at times wonderfully spunky, especially when it came to her twin and

her family. She was a natural protector, always ready to stand up, speak out, and show empathy, caring deeply for the people she loved, whether family or friends. She was active in community events, spending numerous hours at Stoddert Terrace Recreation

Center.

Debra received her education in the DC Public School System. She attended Kimball Elementary School, Sousa Junior High School, and Eastern High School, graduating with the Class of 1971. In junior high, Debra was a proud member of the Sousa Junior High Choir, known as “Sousa Carolers”, and she often boasted about the choir’s record album that was released. In high school, Debra took part in many extracurricular activities, always eager to be involved and express her talents. She was a contestant in the Miss Eastern Pageant and participated in the Student Cultural Exchange Program, during which she lived in Mexico for the summer months. This experience broadened her horizons and deepened her appreciation for other cultures. After graduating from Eastern High School, Debra attended Bennett College and later continued her education at the University of the District of Columbia, where she earned a Degree in Education in 2007. Her commitment to learning reflected her belief in personal growth, excellence, and the value of higher education that she instilled in her children and other children in the family.

Debra began her formal career with the DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) in 1975. Her first position was as a Preschool Leader at Cooperative Play at Fairlawn, located at Anacostia Park. Later, she became an Administrative Assistant in the Office of

Before and After School Program. After a few years, Debra advanced to and accepted the position of Program Monitor as the programs merged to become the Office of Educational Services. She served the department with dedication until her retirement

in 2009. During her years with DPR, Debra earned numerous accolades, built lasting professional relationships, and cherished the lifelong friendships she made along the way. After retiring from DPR, Debra continued her passion for helping others by working

with Foster Care Services. In this role, she accompanied children to home visits with their birth parents and later managed a home for teenage girls before retiring fully. Debra deeply loved the youth she served and often spoke fondly of the bonds she formed and the mentoring relationships she nurtured with the teens. Her kindness, patience, and protective spirit made her a guiding light to many young people.

Debra met and later married Christopher Ruffin in 1980. From this union came Kristen and Corey Ruffin, whom she adored with all her heart. Debra cherished spending time with her twin sister, Beverly, her sister Donna, and her cousin Thadine. After retirement, the three enjoyed attending shows and plays, taking short trips, and going on lunch dates as they explored new restaurants together. Debra loved family gatherings, especially the precious moments shared with her many nieces and nephews. She was the “go‑to” aunt, the one everyone sought for comfort, understanding, and the warmest hugs. She also looked forward to her long telephone conversations and check‑ins with her mother’s only surviving sibling, Aunt Jean, a relationship she treasured deeply. Debra loved reading books, watching educational and informational programs, and visiting museums. She especially enjoyed Saturday outings with her daughter and son, and she adored afternoons spent exploring museums of all kinds. A devoted viewer of PBS television, Debra appreciated learning and discovery throughout her life. She also cherished time with her lifelong friends, relationships she nurtured for more than 50 years. One of her greatest joys was attending the monthly Eastern High School Alumni Breakfast, where she reconnected with classmates and celebrated enduring friendships.

Debra gained her Christian faith from her grandmother, Sally Marshall, and her mother, who were both long-time members of Mount Moriah Baptist Church in Southwest DC. It was through their example that Debra accepted Christ and was later baptized by Pastor Robert G. Williams Sr. at the church’s Northeast DC location. As a child, and later as an adult, Debra deeply enjoyed attending Sunday School. When she grew older, she found joy in serving as an Usher and eventually held the position of President of the Young Adult Ushers Ministry. Debra cherished her church and her family church home, remaining a proud and devoted member. Within its walls, she found strength, spiritual grounding, and a community she loved deeply.

Debra leaves to cherish her wonderful memories two loving children, Kristen P. Ruffin and Corey J. Ruffin; two sisters, Beverly D. Bailey (Lamont) and Donna D. Wise; one brother, Brian N. Wise (Ureka); and her beloved aunt, Jean E. Jones. She is also lovingly

remembered by her longtime sister‑friend, Synetta Collins; ten nieces; five nephews; two godchildren, several great‑nieces, great‑nephews; and a host of devoted relatives and friends who will forever hold her in their hearts.