Virginia Ruff's Obituary
Virginia Ann Ruff, 84, passed away November 30, 2025, at the Dozier House in Tallahassee, Florida. Ms. Ruff was born May 4, 1941, in Crosby, Mississippi to Paul and Ethel Ruff.
After graduation from Leon High School in Tallahassee, she obtained a master’s degree in education and taught at Lively Vocational Technical School for most of her career of 40 years. Teaching was her pride and joy. She was passionate about her students and spoke of them frequently throughout her retirement years, even in the last few months.
She lived the past 50 years on their family tree farm in Havana, Florida, which was her heaven on earth and recently completed a longleaf pine restoration project, together with her son, Dan, establishing Longleaf Farm as a wildlife refuge for the Florida Gopher Tortoise, as well as creating habitat for area wildlife, including deer, turkey and the bob white quail.
She treasured her time on the farm immensely, enjoying the peace and quiet.
Ms. Ruff was predeceased by her parents, a son, Gus Winchester, and a brother, Mack Ruff. She is survived by her son, Dan Winchester and daughter, Elizabeth Winchester; a sister, Mary Ellis (Gene) and a brother, Mike Ruff (Diane); grandchildren, Mack and Mitchel Winchester.
Per Ms. Ruff’s wishes, no services are planned.
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