Mary Ann Ruff's Obituary
Mary Ann Ruff, 96 of Dallas, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on September, 3rd.
Mary Ann was born on December 7, 1926, in Crockett, Texas to JC and Mary Lou Shotwell. She is preceded in death by her husband of more than 60 years, Walter E. Ruff; her son, John S. Ruff, and her sister Jeanne Salter. She is survived by her sons Dr. Michael E. Ruff (Olga), Stephen D. Ruff, Thomas M. Ruff (Susan), daughter Stacey A. Ruff, beloved grandchildren Ashley Ruff Hollmig (Tyler), Josh Ruff, Katherine Ruff, Jacob Ruff, and great-grandchildren, Jack, Chip and Annie Hollmig, and her nephew James Salter (Denise).
Mary Ann believed strongly in education and, in the 1940s, earned her math degree from TSCW. Her first job was as a draftswoman plotting oil wells with the Humble Oil Company in Tyer, Texas. She met her husband, Walter, on a blind date and married him 6 months later. Once she had their first child, Mike, she devoted her life to her family. She supported her kids by being a Den Mother, Girl Scout Leader, coach, etc. Mary Ann loved her children unconditionally and many, many times became like a second mother to neighbors or friends of her children. She loved spending time with friends and family and always welcomed unexpected guests who walked through the door around mealtime to “join us at the table.”
Mary Ann was independent, resilient, fun-loving, loyal, and athletic. After learning to play golf in her 50s, she spent many hours on the course, making wonderful friends and, eventually, becoming the President of the 9-holers golf club at Brookhaven. She enjoyed card games and played with a bridge group for many years. She was also a voracious reader.
Mary Ann loved to travel. She made many trips to Europe and traveled all over the United States - including Hawaii and multiple trips to Alaska, which she made sure her family got to experience. At 86, she traveled with her daughter to South America, including rounding Cape Horn. At last count, she had visited upwards of 38 countries.
We thank God for our mom, grandmother, Mimi, and GG. She loved well and was well-loved; she will be missed. We will celebrate her life on Friday, September 15 at 1:00 in the Chapel at First United Methodist Church, Richardson.
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