Wendy Ruff

Waynesville, Wendy Jean Meeks Ruff, age 53, passed away on Saturday, September 24, 2022 at CarePartners Solace Center.

Wendy was the daughter of Bob Salzer and the late Helen Meeks Salzer.  She was preceded in death by her sister, Merry Ellen Meeks and her infant niece, Katarina.

Wendy spent her early years in Key Largo Florida then graduated from North Buncombe High School in Weaverville.  She later received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Western Carolina University while working full time.  Wendy was employed in management by Verizon Wireless for many years.  She was an active and beloved member of Francis Cove UMC.  Wendy was a skilled cook and loved nothing more than seeing people enjoying her food and each other’s company.  She deeply loved her mother-in-law, Peg Ruff Deitz, and devoted herself to caring for her.  Wendy loved serving others, whether it was through the Toy Run, Haywood Christian Ministries, starting the Haywood B.E.A.R. Closet or being a Salvation Army ringer at Christmas.  She never met a stranger and helped everyone she could.

Wendy is survived by her devoted husband of 32 years, George "Tony" Ruff; father, Bob Salzer; mother-in-law, Peg Ruff Deitz; brother-in-law, Dennis Ruff (Margaret); and many extended family and friends.

A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 1, 2022 at Francis Cove United Methodist Church with Reverend Sharon Davis and Reverend Terry Rowland officiating.  The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. until 1:45 p.m. on Saturday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial may be made to Francis Cove United Methodist Church, PO Box 843, Waynesville, NC 28786.

The care of Wendy has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville.