Carla Edwards Ruff

Carla Edwards Ruff, age 55, of Rutherfordton, NC, passed away Sunday, August 7, 2022, surrounded by family at her home.

She was the daughter of the late Carl and Frances Crowe Edwards and a native of Rutherford County. Carla was a member of Second Baptist Church in Rutherfordton. 

Carla was a 1984 graduate of Chase High School. She furthered her education at Gardner Webb University, graduating in 1989 with a degree in nursing. 

Carla dedicated both her personal and professional life to helping others. She began her nursing career in the labor and delivery department at Rutherford Hospital. Following her departure from the hospital in 1991, she worked at the Rutherford County Health Department until 2005. Additionally, Carla participated in various volunteer activities with Second Baptist Church, the Rutherfordton Garden Club, Rutherford-Spindale Central High School, Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy, and the Girl Scouts of America.

After her first cancer diagnosis in 2013, Carla vowed to never waste a moment. In between treatments, she loved to travel with her family. Some of her favorite adventures included surfing at Waikiki Beach, skiing in Aspen, cruising the Pacific Coast Highway, riding airboats in the Florida Everglades, and attending the New Year’s Eve Ball Drops in Time’s Square five of the past seven years. With an iron-will, Carla engaged in nearly a decade-long battle. Even in her final days, she showed unwavering strength and an indomitable spirit. A friend to many and an inspiration to all, she leaves behind a legacy of strength and a testament to live life to the fullest. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Pretty In Pink Foundation. 

Carla is survived by her husband of 31 years, Doug Ruff, and two daughters, Carrie and Kennedy Ruff. 

The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM to 2:50 PM, Saturday, August 13, 2022, in the family life center at Second Baptist Church in Rutherfordton. Carla will lie-in-state in the sanctuary during that time. The funeral service will be held at Second Baptist Church at 3:00 PM, Saturday, August 13, 2022, with Reverends Dr. Keith Stephenson and Brandon Wood officiating. Interment will follow at Rutherfordton City Cemetery.  McMahan’s Funeral Home & Cremation Services is in charge of the arrangements.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Carla Edwards Ruff, please visit our floral store.