Nelda Alice Ruff

Nelda Alice Carter Ruff, 81, of Bedford died on March 27, 2026, at Lynchburg General Hospital. She was born in Bedford, VA on November 11, 1944, a daughter of the late, Henry Jackson Carter, Sr. and Ellen Burks Heck Carter. In addition to her parents, Nelda is preceded in death by her son, Sherman Albert Wheeler, Jr.; daughter, Susan Ann Wheeler; two brothers, Otey Carter, Henry Carter, Jr.: five sisters, Iris Overstreet, Inis Robertson, Sarah Carter, Julia Phillips, Callie Dooley; and the father of her children, Sherman Albert Wheeler, Sr.

Nelda is survived by her sons, Timothy Wheeler and partner Evan Garst and Bobby Wheeler; and numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, and other family.

Nelda retired from Fred Whitaker Company after many years of dedicated service. She was a hardworking, devoted mother, and lifelong caretaker of her son Bobby, who loved her family very much.

A Celebration of life will be held at a later date. To send condolences online please visit tharpfuneralhome.com. Tharp Funeral Home and Crematory, Bedford is assisting the family.