Loren Darnell Bruffey Sr., 84, of Fincastle, peacefully passed away and went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, January 22, 2026.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Gladys Bruffey; his brothers, Kenneth Bruffy and Jerry Bruffy; and his sister, Elizabeth “Libby” Bruffy.
Loren Sr. is survived by his loving wife of 18 years, Rita Stiltner Bruffey. He is also survived by his children and their families: Anita Jeanne Firebaugh and her husband James Firebaugh III of Troutville,; his son, Loren Darnell Bruffey Jr. and his significant other Tasha Leigh Campbell of Fincastle; and his stepdaughter Shonna Worrell and her husband Roger Worrell of Wytheville. Those left to cherish his memory include his grandchildren: Loren “Trey” Darnell Bruffey III and his wife Valerie Bruffey of Delaware, Ohio, Zoe Alexandra Bruffey of Roanoke, Elizabeth Victoria Owens and her significant other Erik Johnston of Nashville, Tenn., and Anthony Thomas “Thomy” Owens of Radford. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Julie Bruffy of Chico, Calif., and Joan Bruffey of San Jose, Calif.; niece, Rhonda Bruffey of San Jose, and nephews and their families: Steve Bruffy and his wife Lisa Bruffy, Terry Bruffy and his wife Kari Bruffy, Kenny Bruffy and his significant other Joellen Indiveri, all of Chico; and Joseph “Joey” Bruffy and his significant other Barbara Williams of Big Springs, Texas.
Loren Darnell Bruffey, Sr. was a man of deep character, hard work, and dedication, whose life was marked by service to both his country and his community. A proud veteran of the United States Army, he served during the Korean War, and was a member of VFW Lord Botetourt Post 1841. Loren Sr. founded Cardinal Rubber and Seal, building a business that reflected his entrepreneurial spirit and strong leadership, and leaving a lasting legacy. He was also a respected auctioneer and proudly served as President of Botetourt Golf Club, where he was known for his steady leadership and genuine friendship. Music was one of his greatest joys. A gifted musician, he played with Music Inc. and, most recently, with Stone Coal Gap.
His love for music was also tied to his faith. Loren faithfully served as a Deacon at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, where he shared his talents by playing guitar and singing praises to the Lord with his fellow Christian community. But foremost, Loren Sr.’s love for his family was at the heart of everything he did. It not only shaped his home but also the lasting legacy he leaves behind. One of devotion, kindness and unwavering care. He will be remembered for so many lives he touched through his service, his faith, his music, and the deep love he shared with those closest to him.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at the Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, 4930 Country Club Road, Troutville. If you would like to meet with the family, visitation begins at 11 a.m. with the service beginning at 1 p.m.In lieu of flowers, the family asks you send a donation to tPleasant Hill Baptist Church. A private committal gathering will be held after the Celebration of Life service.
