- Date Of Birth: May 9, 1930
- Date Of Death: August 20, 2021
- State: North Carolina
Barbara Morris Rufty, 91, passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, August 20.
Barbara was born on May 9, 1930 to Dewey Madison Morris, Sr. and Addie Rhem Banks Morris.
Although she was born in Greensboro, NC, Barbara was a proud member of the Boyden High School Class of 1948 and in her senior yearbook she was named the “Most School Spirit” superlative. She was a major organizer of class reunions for more than 50 years
Family was central to Barbara’s life. She loved to cook and host dinners. Her specialties were pound cake, nuts and bolts, and pimento cheese. She loved to try and share new recipes, especially sweets. She made hand pulled butter mints each Thanksgiving through Christmas seasons, her favorite time of year. She hosted events for her bridge club, family reunions, and adopted Catawba students attending St. Johns Church.
Barbara was an avid supporter of her children and grandchildren in athletics, music, arts and scholarship.
She was an active member of St John’s Lutheran Church becoming the first woman to serve on the Church Council. She served in most aspects of the church including Youth Leader, Sunday School Teacher, Weekday Church School Volunteer, Girl Scout Leader, worked on the Archive Team and Building Committee. She also sang in the church choir.
When her youngest child left for school, Barbara joined her husband in his work with Rufty family enterprises.
Barbara was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend to all. Leading by example she loved universally and unconditionally. She lived her life with a positive attitude and giving spirit. She could recognize weaknesses in others but she looked for the strengths, embracing and cherishing the whole individual.
Surviving are her five children: Addie Cathleen Rufty, Bonnie Rufty Emerson, Melonie Rufty Beaver (Brad), Oliver Oscho Rufty II (Vicki), and Barbara Jean Rufty Parker (Dave). Nine grandchildren: Geof Wilson (Christine), Kemp Wilson (Heather), Ike Emerson, Alex Beaver (Katie), Addison Beaver, Thomas Rufty, Kay Rufty, Zach Parker (Allie) and Caitlan Parker. Four great grandchildren: Claire Wilson, Sadie Wilson, Oliver Wilson, and Callan Parker. Also surviving, are sister in law Jean Rufty and numerous nieces and nephews.
Preceding her in death were her husband of 49 years, Harold E Rufty, sister Amy Morris Hitchcock Forbis, brother Dewey “Sonny” Morris Jr and numerous Rufty brothers and sister-in-laws.
