Raymond Louis Ruffin was born in Cleveland, Ohio on November 3 1947. He was the first of four children born to the union of the late Alfred and Regoner Ruffin (née Mitchell). Raymond’s mother died at an early age leaving him and his brothers Isiah, Larry, and Ricky to be raised by two Aunts, Polly Mitchell and Mary McCully. Raymond accepted Christ at Bethany Baptist Church in Cleveland. Raymond attended Cleveland Public Schools System graduating in 1966 from Glenville High School. He pursued his dreams by enlisting in the United States Air Force in 1967. Raymond married his high school ‘Sweetie’ Althea (née Cannon). They had four children, Raymond André, Joel Scott, Brian Alexander, and Joi Denine.

After leaving the Armed Forces, Raymond continued his civic duty as a Bus Operator with the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA), retiring after thirty years as a Supervisor. He was commonly known as ‘General Ruffin’ amongst his peers and co-workers. Raymond participated in recreational and organized basketball and loved all Cleveland professional sports franchises. During his later years he often coached those teams from the comfort of his living room.

Raymond was an avid photographer, focusing his talents on his family, friends, and co-workers. He loved music and often showcased his ear for popular music and would create mixtapes to share with others. Raymond was self-proclaimed ‘The World’s Best Waffle-maker’.

Besides his parents, Raymond was preceded in death by his brother Ricky. He leaves to celebrate his Life, his loving wife of Fifty-five years, Althea, four children, Raymond, Joel (Robbie), Brian, and Joi. Eleven Grandchildren, Andrea, Rayanna, Tabbatha, Alexis, Jailya, Darryl, Kennadi, Vairaya, Darrien, Jrue, and Harper. One Great-Granddaughter, India. Two Brothers, Isiah, and Larry. And a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and countless friends.

RAYMOND WILL BE TRULY MISSED!!