Don Ruff

Donald "Don" Oscar, 91, of Abbeville, husband of Edna L. Segers Ruff, passed away Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at his home.

Born on February 4, 1935 in Newberry, he was a son of the late William Oscar Ruff and Annie Ruth Griffin Ruff Riddle.

Don's life was defined by a strong work ethic and a commitment to his country. He served in the United States Air Force for 20 years, where he applied his mechanical brilliance as an airplane mechanic. His service included a significant one-year tour in Vietnam, a testament to his bravery and skill under pressure.

Following his military retirement, Don transitioned into his local community, where he spent many years managing a service station-a role that allowed him to connect with neighbors and friends daily.

When he wasn't working, Don was almost certainly creating or restoring. He was a gifted mechanic with a passion for classic cars, most notably his prized Model-A Ford. His hands were rarely still; he was an accomplished woodworker and a talented potter known for his unique clay "face jugs." Additionally, he took great pride in tending to his farm, where he enjoyed the simple pleasures of life.

Don was a proud member of the Shiners Hejaz Hillbilly Clan #2, where he forged lasting friendships and shared memorable experiences. Nevertheless, above all his achievements and passions, Don is most remembered for the boundless love he had for his family. He and his beloved wife, Edna, shared an extraordinary 70 years of marriage, creating a legacy filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Donald's love extended to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who were the light of his life.

In addition to his wife, Edna, he is survived by his children, Vickie Owens (Gene) and Bartley Ruff; sister, Gail Clegg; grandchildren, Dale Ferquson, Audrey Ruff, Jamie Horne, Kayla Wood (Nate), Ashley Garrett (Phillip), Brooke Thomas, and Jamie Owens (Pam); and twelve great grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his son, Donnie Alan Ruff, grandson, Donnie Lee Ruff, and daughter-in-law, Theresa "Doodle" Raye Ruff.

Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday at the Harley Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Tim Weems officiating. Burial, with military honors, will follow at Greenwood Memorials Gardens.

Pallbearers will be Jamie Horne, Jamie Owens, Phillip Garrett, Nate Wood, Marshall Bowman, and Jay Gravley.

The family will receive friends before the service from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home.

As we celebrate the life of Donald Oscar Ruff, we take comfort in the memories we hold dear and the legacy of kindness and love he leaves behind. He will be sorely missed but forever cherished in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, memorials maybe made to Shriners Children's Greenville/ Office of Philanthropy, 950 West Faris Road, Greenville, SC 29605 (www.shrinerschildrens.org).