Barbara Jean Ruff

Barbara Jean Ruff, 91, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. A woman with a heart as big as her personality, Barbara filled her years with love, laughter, music, unwavering faith, and just the right amount of mischief.

Funeral services will be held 11:30 AM Friday, November 6, 2026 at Sharp Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 6063 Fenton Rd., Grand Blanc, Michigan 48507. Interment in Crestwood Memorial Cemetery, Grand Blanc. Visitation will be held Friday, November 10 from 10 AM until the time of the funeral at 11:30 AM. Those desiring may make contributions to a VFW of their choice or Tunnels to Towers.

Born November 30, 1934, in Flint, Michigan, to Pauline and Miel Verhegghe, Barbara grew up alongside her four siblings, Maxine, Leon, Leona, and Ronald. On August 6, 1952, she married William Dwayne Ruff in Flint, Michigan. Together, they raised four children-Theresa, Bill, Rhonda, and Betty-and were blessed with 10 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Barbara loved her family fiercely and treasured every moment spent with them. To know Barbara was to love her. She had a quick wit, a mischievous twinkle in her eye, and a wonderfully sassy streak that kept everyone on their toes. Her family often reminded her to behave herself, but Barbara had a way of making everyone laugh.

Barbara loved people, conversation, singing, and dancing. She was known for breaking into song, often making up lyrics that included the names of her children and grandchildren. Her infectious laughter and playful spirit brought joy to everyone around her.

Throughout her life, Barbara enjoyed traveling, including memorable trips to Guam, Hawaii and several casino trips to Laughlin, Nevada. She spent many years living in California and took great pride in her work at Magnavox, where she contributed to classified electronics projects associated with Air Force One.

An enthusiastic sports fan, Barbara cheered for the Detroit Tigers, Detroit Lions, and Michigan State Spartans-and even the University of Michigan Wolverines when the Spartans weren’t playing. She also enjoyed a friendly wager and organizing football squares at work.

Above all, Barbara loved Jesus and lived with a deep and abiding faith in Him. For more than a decade, she was a devoted member of First Church in Sterling Heights, Michigan, where she faithfully worshiped and cherished the friendships she made. Her faith was an important part of who she was and a source of strength throughout her life.

Barbara will be remembered for her boundless love, her beautiful smile, and her contagious laughter. She lived with spirit, loved with her whole heart, and brought joy to everyone fortunate enough to know her.

The world is a little quieter without Barbara in it, but the love and joy she shared will echo for generations.

Tributes may be shared at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com.