Carolyn Bunn Ruffin

Carolyn Bunn Ruffin, 82, of Sims, North Carolina, went to be with Jesus in Heaven on September 20, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Carolyn was born on March 1, 1944, and spent her early years in Bailey, where she was raised on the family farm. She graduated from Rock Ridge High School in 1962.

On June 8, 1962, Carolyn married Billy Ruffin, Sr., and together they built a life and raised their family. She began her married life as a homemaker before becoming a licensed cosmetologist. She later worked for Wilson County Schools at Springfield Middle School as a SIMS operator, retiring in 2006.

Carolyn’s greatest joy was her family. She loved cooking and baking for those she loved, especially during the Christmas holidays, when time spent together was particularly special to her. She also enjoyed gardening and the simple pleasures of home and family.

She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Billy Ruffin, Sr.; her children, Kim Stone and husband, Chris, of Wilson, Dawn Ruffin Strickland and Robert Strickland, Sr., of Sims, and Billy Ruffin, Jr. and wife, Bonnie, of Sims; her grandchildren, Robert Strickland III (Harlie), Hillary Creech (Christopher), and Caroline Strickland; her great-grandchildren, Brooks Creech, Katherine Strickland, and Mateo Stahl; her beloved grand dog, Bella; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Sudie Bunn; her brother, James Bunn; and her sister, Evelyn Liles.

A celebration of Carolyn’s life will be held at 4 p.m. Sunday, September 27, 2026, at Bailey Baptist Church, 6646 Deans Street, Bailey, North Carolina. Pastor Daniel Blackburn and Ed Creech will officiate. The family will receive friends following the service until 6 p.m. in the fellowship hall.

Condolences directed to Joyner’s Funeral Home and Crematory at www.joyners.net.