Harold Ruff

Joseph Harold Ruff, Jr., 66, of Newberry passed away on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at his home.

Born on August 23, 1957, in Newberry, he was the son of the late Joseph Harold Ruff, Sr and Jeannette Spruell Ruff.

Harold's commitment to education was evident from an early age. He attended Newberry College, where he cultivated his passion for learning, laying the foundation for his future accomplishments.

Harold's distinguished career as a member of the Farm Services Agency for the USDA impacted countless lives in his community and beyond.

During his tenure at the Farm Services Agency, Harold demonstrated unwavering professionalism and unwavering commitment to assisting farmers in navigating the complex field of agricultural services. His expertise and dedication were acknowledged by his peers when he received the Distinguished Service Award for Youth Board Services.

However, Harold's impact extended far beyond his professional achievements. He wholeheartedly believed in giving back to his community, which led him to initiate the Adopt-A-Highway Project in Newberry. Through this initiative, Harold demonstrated his commitment to preserving the natural beauty of his surroundings while instilling a sense of civic responsibility in others. His efforts inspired many others throughout the years.

The Outstanding Young Men of America Award underscored Harold's exceptional qualities as a person and community member. This honor recognized not only his professional accomplishments but also his embodiment of integrity and kindness towards others. Harold's remarkable character shone through every interaction he had.

He was a member of Central United Methodist Church where he proudly helped prepare Communion for many years following in the footsteps of several previous family generations.

He is survived by his wife, Marcia Adams Ruff; sons, Bryan Keith Longshore of Ninety Six and Brock Eugene (Trudy) Longshore of Newberry; sisters, Elizabeth R. Richburg of West Columbia, and Janet R. Paysinger of Newberry; grandchildren, Kaley B. Longshore (Daniel A. Grubbs), Koedy E. Longshore, Rebecca Longshore, Breanna Longshore, and Katelyn Longshore; great-granddaughters, Judith Grubbs and Iris Grubbs and a number of nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by a sister, Patricia R. Kennerley.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm Saturday, December 16, 2023, at Central United Methodist Church by the Rev. Laura Parish. Burial will follow in Newberry Memorial Gardens.  Visitation will be Friday from 6:00 - 8:00 pm at McSwain-Evans Funeral Home.  

Memorials may be made to Central United Methodist Church, PO Box 67, Newberry, SC 29108 or to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105

Active pallbearers will be Lee Nicholson, John Gaudet, Bryan Longshore, Brock Longshore, Daniel Grubbs and Wendell Adams.