Obituaries

Lillie Mae Nickelson Ruffin was born to the late Willie Ruth Ruffin and the late Robert Lee Nickelson. She grew up in Riderwood, Alabama, and attended Choctaw County Training School in Lisman.

At an early age, she accepted Christ at Wahalak Missionary Baptist Church. After moving to Michigan, she united with Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Ecorse and later became a devoted member of New Mount Hermon Missionary Baptist Church, where she served on the Usher Board and in the choir.

Lillie Mae worked faithfully in the medical field at DMC and Park Medical before retiring. To her, caring for others was more than a career—it was her calling. She also served lovingly as her Pastor’s travel nurse.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Sheppard Nickelson; her aunt, Ollie Mae Jones; her best friend, Ewanna Beck; and her uncle, Deacon Chester Taylor.

She leaves to cherish her memory: her sister, Betty Mae Jackson; two sons, Joseph Rosenthall III (Leslie) and Alfredeick Lamont Ruffin (Justine); godson, Derick (Terri) Meeks; grandchildren, Keshawna Rosenthall and Alfredeick Ruffin Jr. (Mercedez); great-grandchildren, London Moore and Asher “Her Sugar Man” Ruffin; and a host of nieces, nephews, family, church members, and special friends.

Lillie Mae will be remembered for her faith, kindness, and unwavering love for her family and community. Her legacy of service and devotion will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.