Mary Knox Rufas

Mary Knox Rufas, 89, of Sanford, Florida died peacefully on January 4, 2016 in the care of the Hospice of the Comforter in Longwood, FL as the result of respiratory failure. Mary was born August 4, 1926, in Charlotte, NC to Charles B. and Elizabeth P. Knox. A member of the First Presbyterian Church of Sanford, Mary enjoyed gardening and was a long time member of the Sanford Garden Club. One of her great loves was quilting and sewing, while having a passion for cooking. Mary faithfully cared for family and friends with her superb cooking and baking talents. She loved to trade recipes and often baked sweets to surprise her fellow employees at JC Penny Co. in Sanford. Mary Rufas found her greatest joys in life through her grandchildren and provided each of them with the love and care that only a grandmother can provide. The memories of her love and care will remain in each of their hearts for eternity. Mary was married to George Rufas (USN, ret.) on July 13,1947, and was predeceased by him after 51 years of marriage. Mary is survived by three of her four children: Elizabeth Jane Akers of Tampa, FL, Angelo Rufas of Sanford, FL, Georgia Palmer of Orlando, FL, and predeceased by her son Charles Robert “Chuck” Rufas of New Smyrna Beach, FL. She is also survived by her five grandchildren: Ashley Elizabeth Lewis, Bobbie Marie Rufas, Scott Andrew Palmer, Sean Mitchell McMurray, Victoria Lynn Rufas as well as four great-grandchildren; Evan Scott Palmer, Tyson McMurray, Emily Elizabeth Palmer and Willow Elizabeth Webb. The oldest of seven children, Mary is survived by two sisters: Cooper Vuncannon and Sarah Simmons and one brother; Charles P. Knox all from North Carolina. The family extends their gratitude and thanks to all of those who cared for her during her last days. The family has planned a Visitation for Friday, January 8, 2016 at 10am with a Funeral Service to follow at 11am. Services will be held at Baldwin-Fairchild Oaklawn Chapel located at 5000 County Road 46A, Sanford, FL 32771.