Donald Jay Ruff, age 78 of Forest City died Monday, October 27, 2025, at the Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville.  Don was born on December 6, 1946, in Rutherford County and was a son of the late Jay and Mary Margaret Chandley Ruff.  He was a lifelong Baptist and a graduate of East Rutherford High School. 

Don worked for several years as Produce Manager at Community Cash Grocery and later at Ingles before going to work for Sonoco Crellin Plastics where he retired.  He also enjoyed the outdoors and fishing.

Donald served in the United States Army in the 165th Military Police unit in Germany.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his step-mother, Blanche Sane Ruff.

Survivors include his brother, Bruce Ruff of Forest City, his sisters, Barbara Lail and husband, Bruce of Mooresboro, Rita Ruff of Spindale, his nephews, Derrick Lail (Julie) and Eric Lail (Brittany), his great-niece, Aspen Lail and great-nephew, Grant Lail, and his faithful cat, Lovey.

A service from the graveside will be held at 11 o’clock on Friday, October 31, 2025, in the Cool Springs Cemetery with the Reverend Wayne Toney officiating.  The family will receive friends from 5 until 7 o’clock on Thursday evening at Padgett and King.

Memorials may be made to Heart of The Foothills Animal Rescue, 380 US Highway 221,Rutherfordton, NC 28139.

The Padgett and King Mortuary & Crematory is in charge of arrangements and an online guest registry is available at www.padgettking.com