Joseph Ruffner

XENIA — Joseph Tyner Ruffner, 11, of Xenia, went home to be with his Savior, Jesus Christ, on Thursday, August 7, 2014, nine days shy of his 12th birthday. He was born August 16, 2002, in Kissimmee, Florida, the son of Steve and Emily (Holt) Ruffner. Joseph was an avid reader, often reading several books a day. He enjoyed playing baseball, soccer, golf, Minecraft, baking cookies, riding roller-coasters, and was learning to play the piano. He was a smart and creative homeschooler who wasn't able to finish building a chicken coop of his own design with his dad. He was a generous young man who was mindful to play with and care for younger children. Joseph was a committed follower of Jesus who traveled to Guatemala and Honduras on mission trips and celebrated his 5th spiritual birthday on August 4th. He attended Emmanuel Baptist Church, Xenia with his family. Joseph was named after his great-grandfathers, Joseph Ruffner and Tyner Holt. He is survived by his parents, two sisters, Darcy Elizabeth Ruffner and Evelyn Mae Ruffner, a brother, Timothy Byron Ruffner, all of Xenia, maternal grandparents, Dr. Richard and Carolyn Holt, San Antonio, TX, and Nancy Jo Holt, Xenia, paternal grandparents, Alphonse and Lucy Ruffner, Taylor, MI, his special cousin Christopher Ruffner, numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins, and by many close friends, especially his dearest friends Isaac Jopson and Elliott Stratton. Joseph's early departure from this earth has understandably devastated all who knew and loved him, yet those who share his hope in Jesus know that they will see him again in Heaven. A celebration of his life and home-going will be held at 10am, Wednesday, August 13, at Emmanuel Baptist Church, 1120 S. Detroit St., Xenia, with Rev. Greg Couser and Dr. Blair Cook officiating. Visitation will be held from 4-8pm Tuesday at the church. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Xenia. To honor his memory, a scholarship fund has been created to enable other children to participate in mission opportunities. Contributions may be made to the church. Condolences may be made to the family at www.NeeldFuneralHome.com.