Sybil Neulene Ruff Smith

Mrs. Sybil Neulene Ruff Smith, 90, of Double Bridges Road, Elberton, wife of 58 years to the late James Edward "Dink" Smith, passed away on Tuesday, September 30, 2025.

Sybil was born in Elberton on March 3, 1935, the middle child of the late Willie Lee “Jake” Ruff and Katie Lou Glenn Ruff. She was a graduate of Elberton High School and worked as a teller at Granite City Bank for many years. Sybil later worked alongside her husband at the family business, Blue Stone Granite Company.

Sybil spent many happy times camping among family and friends, with a special love of visiting Smokemont Campground in Cherokee, NC. She sewed many of Cathi’s clothes when she was younger. Syb enjoyed playing hymns on the piano, and was a faithful lifelong member of Falling Creek Baptist Church. She spoke fondly of her childhood memories at Ma Ruff’s house with her extended family, including her 46 first cousins.

Surviving are her granddaughter, Lauren Catherine McGarity of Elberton; sister-in-law, Harriett Ruff of Winder; and a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Along with her husband and parents, she is preceded in death by her daughter, Catherine Denise “Cathi” Smith McGarity; son-in-law, Thomas Glenn “Tommy” McGarity, III; sister, Frances Moss; and brother, Harold “Hank” Ruff.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, October 5, at from 2:00-2:45p.m. at Falling Creek Baptist Church. Memorial services, officiated by the Rev. Paul Creason, will follow at 3:00p.m. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Flowers are accepted and contributions may be made in her memory to Falling Creek Baptist Church, 1020 Jack McVeigh Drive, Elberton, GA 30635. 

Those wishing may sign the online guestbook at berryfh.com.

Berry Funeral Home & Crematory of Elberton is respectfully in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Sybil Neulene Ruff Smith.