David Ruffin

DAVID E. RUFFIN, 88 ROCKFORD - David E. Ruffin, 88, of Rockford depart-ed this earthly life Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2009, in Swedish-American Hospital, after a sudden ill-ness. Born Dec. 15, 1920, in Lake Cormorant, Miss., the son of William and Cella Ruffin. David lived in Rockford many years, coming from Mississippi. Employed as a assembler by Chrysler Corp. more than 20 years, retired in 1982. Veteran of the U.S. Army, serving in World War II. He was a Free and Accepted Master Mason, Jurisdiction of Illinois, and Accepted Scottish Rite Prince Hall Sublime Prince, Rockford. David accepted Christ Oct. 27, 1960, a former member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church, where he served on the ministerial staff. He attended schools in Mississippi. David leaves to cherish many loving memories, sons, David Eugene Ruffin and Erick (Vivette) Hall, both of Rockford; granddaughter, Ericia Hall; sister, Izella Ruffin-Boatner of Tennessee; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends; special nephew, James (Beauty) Darty; and special niece, Blanchie L. Anthony. Predeceased by parents; grandson, Erick Hall Jr.; brother, Johnny Ruffin; and sisters, Beatrice Ruffin-Brown, Lillie Ruffin-Howard and Velma L. Ruffin-Darty. Service at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 5, in Pilgrim Baptist Church, 1703 S. Central Ave., with visitation from 9 a.m. to time of service; Pastor Kenneth Board will officiate. Burial Tuesday in Evergreen Memorial Park in Hobart, Ind. Arrangements by Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home, 2429 W. State St.