Jean Sothern Ruff's Obituary
Jean Sothern Ruff of Springdale, Arkansas, born July 1, 1948 in Malvern, Arkansas, went to be with the Lord January 23, 2011. After fighting a long battle with cancer, she passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family.
Jean was the wife of David A. Ruff for almost 42 years, just short of their February 14th anniversary. Jean was survived by three children: James Ruff of Farmington, Michael Ruff of Fayetteville, and Sarah Barnes of Springdale; seven grandchildren: Jared, Titus, Levi, Isaac and Caleb Ruff, and Jack and Sophia Barnes; two brothers: Bob Melancen of Rockford, Illinois and Jim Melancen of Malvern, Arkansas; and her sister, Marion Proulx of Wilmington, Delaware.
She was preceded in death by parents Arthur Edward and Emma Daisy Melancen, and three brothers, Arthur Jr., Phillip and Billy Melancen.
After high school graduation, she went on to cosmetology school in Boston. She then met and married David in 1969, moved to Harrison, Arkansas and the Lord blessed them with their three children. They owned Ruff Wood Products, where she and David worked side by side for 23 years making oak furniture. In the summer of 1988, David and Jean felt the Lord calling them to move their family and business to Springdale, Arkansas. Jean was a faithful wife and a loving and devoted mother. Her love for the Lord was instrumental in leading her children to a saving faith in Christ. She was a wonderful hostess and compassionate friend who always welcomed anyone into her home. Jean was a faithful member of Eastside Missionary Baptist Church where she taught Sunday School, directed VBS and played the piano. She enjoyed teaching piano, painting, sewing and gardening, but spending time with her grandchildren brought her the most joy.
Visitation will be Wednesday, January 26, 2011 from 6 to 8 PM at Nelson-Berna Funeral Home. Funeral services will be Thursday, January 27, 2011 at 10AM at Nelson-Berna Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions can be sent to Eastside Missionary Baptist Church, 325 South Crossover Road, Fayetteville, Arkansas 72701.
Visitation Date Time Wednesday, January 26th 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM Visitation Location Nelson-Berna Funeral Home Service Date Time Thursday, January 27th 10:00 AM Service Location Nelson-Berna Funeral Home Chapel
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