May 25, 52,

MSgt Gerald Scott Ruff, Retired U.S.A.F. passed away on Monday, May 25, 2020 at Wayne UNC Health Care after a courageous battle with several health issues.

Gerrald was born in Charleston, South Carolina on June 24, 1967, son of Norman Donnell Ruff of Evanston, Illinois and the late Beverly Ann Scott Ruff of East Elmhurst, New York. He lived his dream proudly serving his country for 24 years in the United State Air Force. Gerrald will always be remembered for his patriotism. He protected his country and her allies on multiple deployments. Gerrald’s valor and skill was recognized with numerous decorations.

Gerrald was larger than life and every life he touched he changed. He will be remembered by many as an avid New York Mets Fan. Most importantly to Gerrald was his family. Gerrald worked so hard to make sure his wife and children were well taken care of. Gerrald was the best dad and he will be truly missed.

The family will receive friends on Monday, June 1, 2020 from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. at Seymour Funeral Home, 1300 Wayne Memorial Drive, Goldsboro. A service to celebrate Gerrald’s life will follow at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel with full military honors concluding the service on the front lawn. Gerrald will be buried at a later date in the Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery.

Gerrald is survived by his wife of 13 years, Ma Thelma Viernes Ruff; sons, Ivan David Ruff and Joshua Viernes; twin brother and sister-in-law, Gary Nolan Ruff and wife Diane; sister and brother-in-law, Lorin Denice Ruff Cotton and husband Bryan; and his nieces and nephews, Sean Phillip Ruff, Clinton S. Gatewood, Christian Scott Ruff, Matthew Nolan Ruff, Alyssa Lynne Ruff, Raymond Thomas Welsh, Amanda Rae Welsh, Azja Cotton, Jerilynn Cotton, and Robert Cotton.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the family in his memory to assist the family in the days to come and for the care of his children.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.