Joe Eli Ruffin Jr.

Mr. Joe Eli Ruffin, Jr. was born May 26th, 1935, in Eudora, Arkansas the son of Joseph and Victoria (Alexander) Ruffin. He was the third of eight children. Joe grew up being one of three boys and one sister for the first ten years of his life, before his younger brother and sisters were born, forming bonds that would last a lifetime. Joe was cherished deeply by his siblings and loved beyond measure. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior early in life and recommitted his faith in 2022. Joe was a graduate of Chicot High School in Dermott, Arkansas. At 17 years old, he answered the call to serve his country, proudly enlisting in the United States Navy in 1952 continuing the legacy of military service as his father. Joe was a proud Navy man. He served honorably until 1956, attaining the rank of E-3 (Seaman). Joe served for one year, four months in Korea before an injury sustained in Korea brought his military service to a close, making him a United States military veteran.

Being in the military was one highlight of his life. He delighted in recalling his experiences aboard the naval ship, the journeys he embarked on overseas, and the many memories and lifelong friendships he formed when stationed in San Diego, Oakland, and Astoria. While in the Navy, Joe Eli Ruffin, Jr., earned several medals, the National Defense Service Medal (NDSM) for honorable military duty during the Korean War. He also was awarded the Republic of Korea War Service Medal (retroactive), United Nations Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, and Good Conduct Medal (wartime eligibility). Following his military service, Joe continued his commitment to growth and learning, earning a general associate’s degree from Portland Community College. He was boldly honest, never afraid to tell his truth, whether it was easy to hear. Joe lived with conviction, loved fiercely, and left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

A devoted family man, Joe found his greatest joy in time spent with his children, grandchildren, extended family, and dear friends—especially during lively backyard gathering filled with laughter, food, and fellowship. Joe had a quite fondness and love for people, he loved entertaining, dancing, playing cards. He loved cooking, making wine, working around his home, gardening, and took special pride in how he dressed, always carrying himself with confidence, dignity, and unmistakable style.

Mr. Joe Eli Ruffin, Jr. departed this life on January 1st, 2026, at 3:15 p.m., at 90 years old. Joe is survived by his loving wife Rosie Ruffin; Five daughters, Vickie, Rita, Kaneisha, Victoria, and Sanita; Five sons, Ricky, Rochell, Robbie, Joe III (Shelly), and Freddy; 37 grandchildren; and 30 great grandchildren.

He is also lovingly remembered by his two sisters, Jimmie and Zelda; two brothers, Leonard and Willie; an in-law, Mrs. Elaine Ruffin. Joe’s life was further enriched by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Joe was preceded in death by his children: sons Joe Ruffin, III, Ronald Ruffin, and Bryant; and one daughter, Rhonda Ruffin Crenshaw; his parents, Joseph and Victoria Ruffin; his brothers, Aaron and Jesse Ruffin; his sister, Marion Matthews; and his grandsons, Montez Bailey and Lasean Ruffin.

From a childhood rooted in Arkansas and bound by family, to faithful service in the Unified States Navy and courage shown on foreign shores, Joe Eli Ruffin, Jr.’s life was well lived, a story of resilience, and love that will continue to echo through generations.

Services for Joe will be held as follows:

A public viewing from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm on Friday, January 23, 2026 will take place at Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home, 11801 SE Mt. Scott Blvd. in Portland, followed by a 12:30 pm funeral service. Family and guests will then process into Willamette National Cemetery for a committal service with US Navy honors at 2:00 pm.