Sarah A. Ruff

Sarah Ann (Thomas) Ruff, age 97, peacefully entered her heavenly home and the arms of Jesus, on June 15, 2026.

Sarah (Sally) was born July 23, 1928 in Alliance, Ohio to Walter S. Thomas and Helen B. (Butz) Thomas. Graduating from Shaw High School in East Cleveland, Sally then worked at Burroughs Book Store. She and her husband, Rev. Allan Dane Ruff, whom she married on July 29, 1947, served as pastor and wife in churches with the Evangelical Friends—Eastern Region for 56 years. Sally’s roles included Director of Children’s worship, puppeteer, church librarian, and various other responsibilities. The Lord’s gift of a listening ear has guided her daily prayer list. Other hobbies included birdwatching, drawing, reading, crocheting, baking and studying God’s Word.

In addition to her parents, a sister, Madeline Thompson and her brother, Frederick Thomas, preceded Sally in death. She is survived by two daughters, Judy (Neil) Orchard and Marriann (Tim) Bullard; seven grandchildren: Danielle (Damon) Walker, Jarrod (Kimberly) Bullard, Kerri (Chad) Mowrer, Merrily Orchard, Shareen Orchard, Suzanne (Stephen) Buchanan, and Terri (Caleb) Guiles; seventeen great grandchildren, and two great-great grandsons; many dearly loved nieces, nephews and friends.

The family expresses their sincere gratitude to: DIFS (Difference is Family Services) Caregiving Agency, Aultman Alliance Hospice, and Merrily Orchard for their compassionate care and many kindnesses that allowed Sally to remain in her home.

Visitation will be on Thursday, June 18, 5:00-7:00 PM at Arnold Funeral Home, 1517 Market Avenue, Canton, Ohio. The Celebration of Life Service will be held at Canton First Friends Church, 5455 Market Avenue N, on Friday, June 19, at 1:00 PM.

Sally will be interred in Damascus Cemetery, with a private family gathering on Friday morning.