In Loving
Memory

Archie Lee Ruffin

August 26, 1960 – December 18, 2022

Archie Lee Ruffin, beloved son, father, grandfather and brother, went to his final sleep on Sunday, December 18, 2022 at the age of 62. Archie was born in Richmond, Virginia on August 26, 1960 to Mrs. Mary and Mr. Archie Holmes Ruffin. Archie, affectionately known as ”Pop Ruffin” to many, was preceded in death by his father Archie Holmes Ruffin, his brother Alvin Ruffin and his cousin Kenneth Ruffin (Kenny Boo).

Archie grew up in the Richmond area and was a member of Mt. Vernon Baptist Church. He graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in 1978 after which he then went on to serve in the United States Marines Corps and was active during Operation Desert Storm.

Archie was a firm believer in God. He loved the Lord and took any opportunity he had to share the gospel with friends, family and even strangers. He was a counselor to anyone who needed one and was known for his listening ear and gave advice. He loved helping others and often helped them before helping himself. He was a gentle and kind soul who loved people and didn’t mind helping strangers, friends, and family in a time of need. Archie loved his family and absolutely adored all of his grandchildren. Poppy, as they called him, never hesitated to step in and help where needed. Everyone’s favorite babysitter, he walked the fine line between spoiling his grands and providing them with structure and loving discipline.

He was a committed entrepreneur, starting several successful businesses during his lifetime. He was supportive of other business owners as well, giving guidance and direction to many young entrepreneurs. One of Archie’s great loves was boxing. He started his boxing career while stationed in Washington as a marine. The highlight of his boxing career included the honor of being named heavyweight champion! When Archie turned 52, he decided to return to his love and get back in the ring after a 30-year hiatus. He was determined to show everyone that an old man still had it. Committed to reentering the ring, he altered his whole lifestyle, including a daily rigorous workout regimen and healthy diet to fuel his success. After a full year of preparation, he achieved his goal and successfully reentered the boxing ring proving to everyone that hard work and dedication can make dreams come true.

He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Josephine Ruffin; seven children, Ms. Aisha Ruffin, Ms. Ariel Ruffin, Mrs. Amber Reid (Jamal), Mr. Archie Lee Ruffin II, Ms. Kimberly Lewis, Ms. Karen Lewis, and Mr. Quin Lewis; he leaves fourteen grandchildren; one great-grandchild; additionally, he leaves a devoted mother, Mrs. Mary Ruffin; one brother, Mr. Albert (Julinda) Ruffin; one sister, Mrs. Emma Ruffin – Watson; three aunts, Mrs. Geneva Powell, Mrs. Dorothy Pair, and Mrs Ella Cook; two uncles, Mr. Kenneth (Louise) Ruffin and Mr. Ervin Pair; numerous nieces and nephews among them a devoted nephew, Mr. Cameron Watson; a special niece, Ms. Tamika Ruffin, a host of cousins and many other relatives and friends. While Archie will be greatly missed, his legacy of love, kindness, and patience will live on in the memories of all who knew and loved him.

A viewing will be held from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, December 27 with a funeral service to follow at 11:30 a.m. at Affinity Funeral Service, 8074 Mechanicsville Tnpk, Mechanicsville, VA 23111. Commital Service with Military Honors to follow in Forest Lawn Cemetery.