Katherine “Dee” Ruffin, born on August 28, 1941, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, wisdom, and cherished memories that will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Katherine was born to the late Christopher M. Ruffin and Margaret Lucas Ruffin. She was raised in a loving family and carried those values of compassion, resilience, and devotion throughout her life. Affectionately known as “Dee,” she was known for her warm spirit, kind heart, and the special way she made everyone feel welcomed, valued, and loved.

Katherine attended Sussex County Training School, where she graduated as Valedictorian, demonstrating academic excellence from an early age. She began her higher education journey at Morgan State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree. She later attended Indiana State University, where she made history as the first African American to be named “Miss Social Work.” Katherine also furthered her studies at Johns Hopkins University, reflecting her deep dedication to education, perseverance, and lifelong learning. She truly loved education and believed in the power of knowledge to open doors and shape lives.

Her passion for education extended into her professional life. Katherine was a dedicated educator who taught in Baltimore, Maryland, at Annie B. Jackson Elementary School in Waverly, Virginia, and also served as an educator at Virginia State University. Through her work, she inspired countless students and made a lasting impact on the lives of those she taught. Her commitment to education reflected her belief that knowledge empowers future generations.

Dee had the most contagious laugh; one that could instantly brighten a room and lift the spirits of everyone around her. She found great joy in spending her summers babysitting her great-nieces and great-nephews, creating special memories that will be cherished forever. She often took them on trips to the library, encouraging curiosity, imagination, and a love for reading that will continue to positively influence their lives for years to come.

Katherine, a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., was initiated into the Alpha Gamma Chapter at Morgan State University on December 15, 1960, exemplifying her lifelong commitment to sisterhood, scholarship, and service. She was an active member of First Baptist Church in Waverly, Virginia, before relocating to Petersburg, Virginia, where she became a devoted member of Metropolitan Baptist Church. Her faith remained a guiding force throughout her life.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Christopher M. Ruffin Sr. and Margaret Lucas Ruffin; and her sisters, Margaret Diggs, Rebecca Jones, and Carlota Moore.

Katherine leaves to cherish her loving memory one brother, Christopher Ruffin Jr of Baltimore, MD, and one sister, Lucy Thomas of Waverly, VA, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were touched by her kindness, wisdom, and joyful spirit.

“Dee” will always be remembered for her strength, wisdom, joyful laugh, and the love she shared so freely with those around her. Her legacy of compassion, devotion to family, faith, service, and passion for education will continue to live on through all who were blessed to know her.

Though she may be gone from our sight, her love and spirit will forever remain in our hearts.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00am on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at Metropolitan Baptist Church, 1021 Halifax Street, Petersburg, Virginia, Rev. Lamont Hobbs, Pastor. Interment will follow immediately at Waverly Cemetery, Spring Branch Road, Waverly, Virginia. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance and honor of a life well lived.

Family and Friends will assemble at Metropolitan Baptist Church, 1021 Halifax Street, Petersburg, Virginia, at 10:30am.

Please keep the family uplifted in prayer.

Click link below to watch livestream:

https://facebook.com/events/s/celebration-of-life-service/3859407767686519/