Christine Ruffin

Christine (more affectionately known as "Tene") was born in Huntsville, Texas on June 18, 1918 to Lee Gamble and Vernicia Gamble. She attended Rose Field School. Upon moving to Houston, Christine was an active member of St. John Baptist Church on Dowling Street in the Third Ward area of the city. She later moved to the Carverdale Community and joined the St. James Missionary Baptist Church where she served dutifully until she became too ill. Christine loved the Lord and her Church work was very special to her. She taught Children Sunday School for over 50 years and other children's lessons such a BTU and Vacation Bible School. Anyone who knew her knew that she loved the Lord and wanted to make sure she witnessed to those she came in contact with. She was also a member of the Women's Mission. During her lifetime, Christine worked as a caregiver for Mrs. Shepherd and later as a housekeeper/nanny for Ford Hubbard Sr. and Julia Hubbard in River Oaks. She also traveled with the family. Tene was blind in one eye at birth and she was totally blind by 1956. Although blind, she was not handicap but handi-capable. She was very active in associations and travelled around the country each year to attend conventions. She was a member of the following: National Church Conference of the Blind - Member since 1955 Texas Church Conference of the Blind - Director/Houston Chapter Christine is preceded in death by her husband Carl Ruffin; sisters, Bennie Kinner, Macy Gamble, Inez Gamble, Dorothy Young; and, brothers, Jessie Gamble, Willie "Shine" Gamble and Arthur "Sun" Gamble. Tene leaves to cherish her memories her son Jimmie Abrom, daughter-in-law, Dorothy Citizen; her devoted granddaughters, TeneInger "T-na" Abrom-Johnson (David, husband, and Miyal, son) and Tracy Abrom; sister, Bobbie Jean Cossie and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and neighbors.