Monday, November 28, 2016 3:44 pm

Richard "Carlton" Ruffin, age 79, of Rocky Mount, passed away on Tuesday, November 22, 2016. Born in Nash County on April 17, 1937, he was the son of the late Mark Richard Ruffin and Hettie Wilder Ruffin. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Faye Kirkland Ruffin; brother, Ronnie Ruffin and sister-in-law, Elizabeth "Anne" Kirkland Kelley.

He is survived by his son, Rick Ruffin and his wife, Mary, of Rocky Mount; two grandchildren; brother Mike Ruffin and his wife, Robbie, of Concord; sister Debbie Ruffin Bobbitt and her husband, Bob, of Rocky Mount; a sister-in-law, Carolyn Ruffin of Rocky Mount; a brother-in-law, John "Jay" Kirkland and his wife, Cathy, of Midlothian, VA; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside service was held Saturday, November 26 at Pineview Cemetery with his brother, Rev. Mike Ruffin officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Carlton's name to Tri-County Industries, 1250 Atlantic Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27803.

Arrangements by Wheeler and Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Rocky Mount.