Our beloved Larry Donell Ruffin (Rock) was one whose life was notable for his loving, caring and compassionate ways. He was admired highly, esteemed and clearly loved as a husband, brother, uncle and friend.

Larry Ruffin was the husband of Lachelle Johnson. He was born April 5, 1954 in Pitt County, NC to Albert and Essie Ruffin, Sr. He completed his education in the Newport News Public School System and graduated from Menchville High School in 1973. He attended Ferrum College and later enlisted in United States Army. Following his military service, he resided on the Peninsula and worked in various positions; namely the Newport New School Board as Area Custodial Supervisor and fondly remembered as a Store Manager for Radio Shack for many years. He maintained lifelong friendships and always had a smile, funny story and sports trivia talk to share.

He leaves to mourn his passing a loving and devoted wife of 16 years, Lachelle Ruffin. Larry will be greatly missed by a daughter, LaKisha Richardson (Frank); two grandchildren, Jareem and Malia Richardson; three brothers, Thomas L. Ruffin (Katrina), Marvin A. Ruffin and Harold Ruffin (Deborah) all living in Newport News; three sisters, Angenette R. Grant and Regina R. Ruffin of Smithfield, VA and Brenda Ruffin of Durham, NC, one aunt, Alice Peyton of Jacksonville, NC and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. He is predeceased by his parents, Albert and Essie, sister Mary Ruffin, brothers, Albert Ruffin Jr., Wilbert G. Ruffin. James O. Ruffin, Theodore Fields and Thessalonia Fields.