Regis Duane Ruffing

Regis Duane Ruffing, age 93, of Lawrenceville, GA, went to be with the Lord peacefully in his sleep on January 13th, 2026.

Regis was born in Greenville, PA, to Joseph and Mildred Ruffing. After his father died tragically from blood poisoning at only 33 years old, his mother worked 12 hour days, 6 days a week as a nurse to raise her children. Her work ethic made an impression on Regis, who dutifully served in the Korean War and went on to graduate from Northeastern University with a degree in Finance. He married the love of his life, Joan Cohane, on Thanksgiving Day, 1957, in Massachusetts. When they left Boston, the happy couple pulled city names out of a hat and Baltimore won. As their family grew, Regis became a very involved father to his 3 sons and daughter. He was a Scoutmaster for the Boy Scouts of America and a baseball coach who enjoyed traveling, camping, attending church, and watching Hallmark Channel Christmas movies. Over the nearly two decades they lived in Maryland, the Ruffings were fortunate to connect with extended family to whom they remained close even after they eventually settled in Georgia, where Regis continued to work for Sun Life until 1992. He was immensely proud to become a grandfather, and the heights of many of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren faithfully tracked over decades still hang in his guest room today.

A devout Catholic, Regis visited Medjugorje 4 times and was heavily involved with active ministry until the limitations of age shifted his focus to the quiet dedication of attending daily Mass. He drew great strength from his faith and was always found with a crucifix around his neck and a rosary in his hand. Over time, he became a prayer warrior and encouraged others to be as well.

Regis is survived by his devoted wife of 68 years, Joan, his brother Newt and wife Alice, and his 4 children: Joe (Vanessa) of Chincoteague, VA, Martin (Cathy) of Stone Mountain, GA, Regina Hughey (Ken) of Flowery Branch, GA, and Mike (Lisa) of Castle Rock, CO.

He leaves behind 8 grandchildren: Kaci Ritchey (Patrick), Mary Caron (David), Mason (Jen), Andrew (Lauren), Toney (Brook), Lizzy Bohn (Bill), Cathleen Farmer (Daniel), Daniel (fiancée Becca). He was also blessed with 19 great-grandchildren: McKinley, Bryce, Tanner, Shelby, Xander, Mason, Mae, Raegan, Charlotte, Brody, Lennon, Faraday, Peyton, Landon, Hadley, Ambrose, Blair, Maverick, and Augustine, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Regis was preceded in death by his sister, Geraldine Ruffing, his brothers, John (Jack) Ruffing and Richard (Dick) Ruffing, and his foster son, Bobby.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Visitation will be Monday, January 19th from 4-6 p.m. at Wages and Sons. A funeral Mass will be held at St. Marguerite D’Youville at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, January 20th, celebrating Regis’ life and deep faith. A reception will be held at the church following the service.