Mary Elizabeth Ruffin

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake." Psalm 23

Mary Elizabeth Ruffin finished her work on earth and returned home to her heavenly Father on Monday, October 13, 2025. She was born on April 10th, 1963 to the late Benjamin M. Striblin and Annie O. McDonald-Striblin. She was blessed to share her life with six siblings. Mary Ruffin was a lifelong learner dedicated to her education. She attended Randolph County Schools. After completing high school, she continued her education. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice, followed by a Master of Science in Criminal Justice, and a second Master of Science in Management. Her academic achievements reflect her passion for justice and leadership. Mary's educational journey was a testament to her commitment to growth and her desire to make a positive impact on her community.

Mary was a compassionate, loving, and entrepreneurial woman who dedicated her life to serving others and giving back to her community. She founded a thrift store to provide affordable resources and create a welcoming space for those in need, and she generously offered her home to those seeking shelter, exemplifying her deep kindness and selflessness. A woman of faith, Mary loved the Lord and was a faithful member of Saint Peter's United Methodist Church in Randleman, NC. Her unwavering love, entrepreneurial spirit, generosity, and commitment to helping others left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her.

Mary Ruffin is preceded in death by her father, Benjamin Mack Striblin; her son, Lamar Benjamin Echols Jr.; her sister, Vanessa Thomas; and her nephew, Quinton Striblin.

She leaves behind a loving family, including her dear mother, Annie O. McDonald-Striblin; her devoted husband, Keith Ruffin; her proud daughters, Erica and Sherica Echols; and her cherished ten grandchildren: Tyrin Echols, Keyanna Echols, Ka'Sean Jones, JuQuan Livingston, Ky'Heem Hogan, Joshua Echols, Sa'Niah Kitchen, Ky'Asia Hogan, Xylah Mason, and Namaste Mason, along with one great-grandchild, Ka'ior Jones. She is also survived by her brothers, Bobby Striblin (Sherry Striblin), Johnny Striblin(Janette Striblin), Eric Striblin, and Barbra Smith, her sister, Katren Monk, as well as a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Her life was marked by love, family, faith, and a strong commitment to helping others. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her and her legacy will live on through those she loved.