Thelma Ruby Cuff

Mrs. Thelma Ruby Cuffe (née Fullerton), fondly known as “Mother” by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know her, peacefully departed this world on Friday, May 24, 2024, surrounded by the love and care of her family. Born on December 1, 1922, to Irene Taylor-Fullerton and Wilfred Fullerton in Hampstead, St. Mary, Jamaica, Thelma’s life was a testament to love, family, community, and unwavering faith in the Lord.

Her journey took her to Kingston, St. Andrew, and Braeton, St. Catherine, where she devoted herself to raising her children and grandchildren, leaving an indelible mark on their lives. Despite many challenges, Thelma’s resilience and love were always evident. She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, former husband Ronald Hector Cuffe, toddler child Rafael Cuffe, grandson Roger Anthony St. Patrick Cuffe, and great-grandson Robert Dunn, Jr., who surely welcomed her with open arms in heaven.

Mrs. Cuffe was an accomplished seamstress and community volunteer who gave up her career to raise her children. In addition to her work as a skilled seamstress, she contributed significantly to the family business. Even in her 70s, she embraced a new chapter, moving from her beloved Jamaica to Miami, Florida, where she enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family.

Thelma was renowned for her culinary skills, especially her exceptional Jamaican Christmas cake and bread pudding. Her occasional enjoyment of a glass of Campari or wine added to the warmth of her presence. A devout Catholic, she attended regular Mass in Jamaica and found solace in daily Bible readings. Beyond being a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Thelma was a beacon of love and hospitality. Her amiable demeanor made everyone feel at home, creating cherished memories that will last forever.

Thelma is survived by her beloved children: Annette Escoffery, Earl Cuffe, Lois “Pat” Brown (Dennis), Patrick Cuffe (Maureen), Marcia “Peggy” Linton (Samuel), Ronald Cuffe (Pauline), and Mary Gregory (Hernando). Her legacy extends through her 24 grandchildren: Dr. Nadine Cuffe Franz (Kevin), Dr. Latoya Linton-Frazier (Dale), Christopher Linton (Tami), Stacy Whyte, Robert Dunn, Denise Whitfield (Christopher), Jason Black (Brittany), Kimberly Gregory, Kevin Cuffe, Monique Cuffe, Afia Cuffe, Ricky Cuffe, Kyle Cuffe (Keia), Khary Cuffe (Selena), Elaine Murphy (Mark), Caswell Shaw, Nels Shaw (Michelle), Thelma Ann Shaw (Paul), Jean-Claude (JC) Shaw, Patrick Cuffe, Jr., Barrington, Mario Cuffe, Brian Cuffe, and Julie Cuffe, along with over 50 great-grandchildren with two more great-grandchildren due this year, and over 10 great-great-grandchildren.

As Thelma embarks on her journey to reunite with her son, grandson, and great-grandson in the arms of the Lord, we celebrate a life well-lived and a soul eternally cherished.

The viewing and funeral services for Mrs. Thelma Cuffe will be held at Treasure Coast Church of God, 4050 SW Savona Blvd., Port St. Lucie, FL 34953, on Saturday, June 15, 2024. The family will receive friends for the viewing from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with the funeral service being held from 12:30p.m. to 2p.m. Interment will follow at Rolling Oaks Cemetery 2200 SW Del Rio Blvd, Port St. Lucie, FL 34984.

The family extends special thanks to Ms. Elite Charleus, her caregiver, Vitas Doctors and Vitas nurses, home health, and caseworker. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Thelma’s honor to the Heart Foundation for Children or any children’s charity of your choice.

May her soul rest in eternal peace.