Thomas Allen Ruff, age 65 of Murfreesboro, arrived at his eternal home on Jan 19, 2017 after wrestling with cancer for a year. Thomas was born in Toledo, Ohio on March 11, 1951, the son of the late Norman and Betty Ruff. He is survived by Thomas Ruff, Jr. and Sue Love of Charlottesville, VA.

Fiercely independent, Thomas traveled the world through his various occupations, first with the U.S. Navy off the coast of Vietnam and then, with the Merchant Marines. Along the way someone shared the Good News of Jesus with Thomas and a barroom brawler was adopted into the family of God.

Thomas loved Jesus, sushi, chocolate, well-prepared food, and an expertly painted wall – AND people. Since he didn't have many financial resources, he gave himself. He was a member of New Vision Baptist Church, making it his home for the last eight years.

A special tanks to those who walked alongside Thomas as he transitioned from independence to dependence, notably the staffs at St. Thomas Rutherford, the Wellness Center, Tennessee Oncology, Sunnington Assisted Living, Adams Place, and Tennessee State Veterans Home.

A gathering to celebrate his life will be held 4:00 p.m. Thursday, January 26, 2017 at New Vision Baptist Church, 1750 N. Thompson Lane, Murfreesboro. Pastor Brady Cooper will officiate.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Woodfin Memorial Chapel.