Miles Wilson Ruffin

Miles Wilson Ruffin, affectionately known to many as "Elvis Presley," of Tarboro, North Carolina, passed away on November 13, 2025, in his hometown at the age of 58. Born on November 21, 1966, in Tarboro, Miles led a life marked by music, laughter, and a generosity of spirit that touched all who crossed his path.

He was the cherished husband of Elle Ruffin, beloved father to Chelsea (Brady), Gabriella and Keaton, and loved by his parents Myrtle and Patrick Ruffin and his aunt Margie Ruffin. Miles grew up surrounded by friends, humor, and the southern warmth that he carried throughout his life. After graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Miles built a fulfilling career with Ace Hardware, where he worked for 30 years. He was well known for his bright smile, quick wit, and readiness to help both coworkers and customers alike. He made friends wherever he went.

Miles had a passion for music that defined much of his life. He loved his guitars and cherished the sounds of The Beatles, The Avett Brothers, and Zach Bryan. Evenings by the fire with his beloved wife, their dogs at his side, were among his happiest moments. Those who knew him will fondly remember his flamboyant attitude, generous heart, and boundless sense of humor-traits that made every encounter with him memorable.

True to his independent spirit, Miles requested no formal service. Instead, he wanted those who knew him to remember the laughter, the warmth, and the friendships that gave his life such meaning.

As we think of Miles, we are reminded of his favorite song, "In My Life" by The Beatles, whose words reflect the love and memories he leaves behind. And though some of those moments have changed, his presence remains in the hearts of all who loved him. He will be dearly missed.

Donations in his honor can be made to The John Lennon Real Love Project.

Launched in 2014 with the warm support of Yoko Ono, the John Lennon Real Love Project (JLRLP) is a visionary songwriting workshop and program for communities in need.

Since 2015, Theatre Within has provided the JLRLP songwriting workshop for children, teens and adults impacted by cancer through the Red Door Community, where no one faces cancer alone, and other regional cancer support communities.

Since 2021, Theatre Within has provided the John Lennon Real Love Project as a visionary songwriting program for elementary and middle schools.

Donate at https://www.lennontribute.org

In My Life - The Beatles

There are places I'll remember

All my life, though some have changed.

Some forever, not for better;

Some have gone and some remain.

All these places had their moments

With lovers and friends I still can recall.

Some are dead and some are living,

In my life I've loved them all.

But of all these friends and lovers

There is no one compares with you.

And these mem'ries lose their meaning

When I think of love as something new.

Tho' I know I'll never lose affection

For people and things that went before,

I know I'll often stop and think about them,

In my life I love you more.

Tho' I know I'll never lose affection

For people and things that went before,

I know I'll often stop and think about them,

In my life I love you more.