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Joseph Ruff Obituary
Joe was born March 17, 1947 in Houston, MS to Mr. and Mrs. James Paulk Ruff. He graduated from Whitehaven High School and Memphis State University. He joined the Memphis Police Department where he devoted his life to the service of others. After retiring as Captain from MPD he continued his career of service with the Shelby County Sheriff's Department where he retired as Chief Inspector. While in full time service to law enforcement he also served honorably in the Navy Reserve as well as serving in the Tennessee State Guard where he retired as a Colonel.
His many hobbies included competitive shooting, golf, fishing, traveling, studying history and politics, and he loved spending time with family and friends.
He is survived by his daughters Melissa (Brian) Laskaris of Brentwood, TN and Julie (Dave) Bratcher of Jackson, TN, grandchildren (who lovingly named him Chief) Gracie, George, Bennett, and Catherine, sister Paulette Yarbrough, brother Pat (Kristy) Ruff, as well as several nieces and nephews, and many dear friends.
The family will receive friends on Friday, June 28, 2024 from 11a.m. to 1p.m. at Memorial Park Funeral Home in Memphis, TN with funeral services following at 1p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to The American Heart Association or Samaritan's Purse.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Paulette Yarbough
June 27, 2024
Pat Ruff
June 26, 2024
Pat Ruff
June 26, 2024
Pat Ruff
June 26, 2024
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Pat Ruff
June 26, 2024
Pat Ruff
June 26, 2024
Pat Ruff
June 26, 2024
Pat Ruff
June 26, 2024
Pat Ruff
June 26, 2024
If you knew him at all you probably knew that he loved to shoot. The multitude of trophies from local, state, national, and international competitions demonstrate that he was also very good at it. I received my first gun from him when I was 12 and he taught me how to shoot safely and still have fun. He was also a walking encyclopedia of ballistic knowledge. Anytime that I would ask about a particular caliber of weapon or cartridge, he could tell me by whom, when, and why it was invented. He would also know the muzzle velocity and the how many foot pounds of energy that it produced (I still don't really understand what that second part means). He was my go to guy for questions on a myriad of subjects and I will miss that, and him, immensely.
Jeff Ross
June 26, 2024
Jo was one of the most honorable men i ever had the privilege to Know. It was my Honor to be trained by him and to be a friend. Rest in peace, you will always be remembered.
American Heart Association
June 26, 2024
May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.
Staff of Memorial Park Funeral Home & Cemetery
June 26, 2024
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Terry Lomax
June 26, 2024
Chief Ruff was always there with a smile and encouraging remark. While working for him he honored me with allowing me to teach his Instructors development course. He was the one of the most positive influences in my life. A true Gentleman and Patriot. You´ll be missed Chief. Fair finds and following seas my friend.
William Hawkins
June 26, 2024
I served his unit in the TN State Guard. He served the community and our country honorably.
Tommy Reynolds
June 26, 2024
R.I.P. Joe.
Condolences to your family.
You served your community and country exceeding well earning the respect of those you served and those you mentored. You will be missed.
Tommy Reynolds
Junior Stepp
June 26, 2024
Truly one of the good guys.
David
June 25, 2024
Pat I am sorry to hear about the loss of your brother but glad to know he will be with the Lord. He sounds like an extraordinary man. I know it was a blessing to have him as your brother.
Pat Cronin
June 25, 2024
Pat Cronin..
It was my great pleasure to have known Joe for about 40 plus years. He was always a true gentleman and a real credit to the law enforcement profession. Glad God made our paths cross.
Larry Young
June 25, 2024
Joe will be missed. Prayers to his family. Larry & Peggy Young
David Rook
June 25, 2024
A wonderful soul. He was my friend and my mentor. I learned so much from him and always enjoyed spending time with him. Tell Jim Wilson I said hi, Chief. Godspeed!
Heidi Kuhn
June 25, 2024
A dependable man with great integrity. He will be missed.
Fred James
June 25, 2024
A valued friend from high school, when we knew him as "Phil" rather than "Joe". I double dated with him to our senior prom on graduation night. His was a life well lived. Rest easy, Shipmate. We have the watch.
Ed Rose
June 25, 2024
A man of honor, a man of faith a man of intelligence, a man of integrity and a man I was proud to know. I can´t tell you how much you will be missed RIP
Bob Graham
June 25, 2024
We went through the Memphis Police Academy together in 1970.
Ivette Baldizon
June 25, 2024
Joe was the best friend you could ever have, sweet, always with encouraging words to perk you up. I will miss him dearly.
Henry Todd
June 25, 2024
MPD, a great honorable man.
Harold Stabe
June 25, 2024
I had the pleasure of working for Chief Ruff at the Sheriff's Office Training Academy. He was a great supervisor, instructor, mentor and leader. One of the finest men I have ever known.
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5668 Poplar Avenue P.O. Box 17144, Memphis, TN 38119-0885
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