Anita Joyner Ruffin

Anita was born in Ahoskie, N.C., on July 25, 1947. She graduated from Ahoskie High School in 1965, where she was voted Prettiest Girl and Homecoming Queen.

Anita was an incredible mother who loved her children with all her heart and soul. She was a faithful friend to many and a wise counselor to anyone who needed a friendly ear or a shoulder to cry on. She had a gentle spirit, a kind heart, and lit up every room she walked into. She was wonderfully witty and loved to bring laughter to those around her. Anita also had a special love for animals and found immense joy in caring for her beloved dogs, Bullet and Gus, and her cats, Gunner and Scarlett.

She was a devout Christian who loved her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, with complete reverence and devotion, and we take comfort in knowing that she is now resting in His loving arms.

Anita is survived by her daughter, Alison Ruffin, and son-in-law, Mark; her son, Sterling Ruffin, Jr., and daughter-in-law, Stacy; her grandsons, Tanner Ruffin and his wife, Dynah, and Maddox Ruffin and his fiancée, Jessica Andrews; her brother, Larry Joyner and sister-in-law, Susan; and her sister-in-law, Sue Joyner.

Anita was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Sterling Stokes Ruffin, Sr.; her parents, James Joyner, Sr. and Margaret Joyner; and her brothers, James Joyner, Jr. and Ronnie Joyner.

A memorial service celebrating Anita’s life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at Covenant Church, 4015 Corey Rd., Winterville, NC 28590.