Deacon Rufus Lee Mosby

Deacon Rufus Lee Mosby arrived and was given his visitor pass here on Earth on April 13, 1933. He became the second child of Lee and Anna Mosby; and the younger brother to Bernice. He was educated in the public school system of Marion County and learned the skill of farming from his father. Rufus became a member of Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church also as a child. He was affectionately dubbed “Poppa” by his family and friends. Growing up in the country was not easy. He endured early mornings completing chores and caring for the animals on the farm before school and once school was over, he returned to the farm to complete more chores. When responsibilities and chores were completed, Rufus spent time hanging out with his cousin and childhood friend Wilbert (Kill) Cole.

Enticed by the opportunities of the big city, Rufus joined his 1st cousin Henry Mosby in Fort Lauderdale. He took his first job as a dishwasher for Morrison’s Cafeteria. He later became a convenience store and property owner and a subcontractor for Florida Housing Authority (FHA).

While living in Fort Lauderdale, Rufus had five children: Ronald (Gwendolyn Lee Johnson) Rufus Michael and Dolvanya (Eula Gary Mosby) and Roderick and Melissa (Mattie Ross). Rufus was ambitious and hard working. He believed in acquiring nice things for himself. He worked hard and played harder. He was a sharp dresser and took pride in looking good. Rufus drove a Cadillac most of his adult life and travelled the United States vacationing. He enjoyed spending time with family, farming and fishing on his boat. Every once and awhile he would spot a garage sale sign or a “sand chickens” and pull over. He was a collector of many things especially clothing and he loved a good deal. He was a jokester and a master of words. He especially loved playing with his grandchildren and great grands (Pow! Pow!) He loved people and people loved and learned from him. After the passing of his father Lee in 1984, Rufus returned to Ocala to help take care of his mother. He also returned to farming and a slower paced lifestyle. He became a produce vendor and earned the name, “The Veggie Man.” He became the friendly face on the corner selling vegetables and fruit.

Rufus loved attending church and rarely missed a Sunday at Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church of Ocala. One of his greatest honors was being bestowed with the title of “Deacon” under the leadership of former pastor, Rev., Dr. Nichollus P. Booker (New Birth MBC Dunnellon, Fl).

For 93 years, Rufus lived life well; knowing one day that he would have to turn in his visitors’ pass. On the morning of May 26, 2026, at AdventHealth Ocala in room 638, Rufus asked with his eyes closed, “Where am I going?” He was told by his daughter Lisa, “No where, not until you’re more stable.” He tried to get out of bed asking again and again as if he were talking to someone else, “Where am I going.” Dolly instructed Lisa to ask him where he wanted to go. He replied, “Home!” He asked one final time, “Where are WE going?” Dolly said to Lisa, “Tell him, Home.” With that permission, Rufus turned in his visitor’s pass and began his transition. With his eyes slightly open and fixated beyond those surrounding his bed, Rufus traveled. He waited until the moment when neither of his daughters were at his side and departed. Just like his arrival, his departure and visitor’s pass was valid only on THAT day. Rufus quietly and peacefully crossed over in his sleep. He was Chosen, not Lucky!!!Rufus is preceded in death by his parents Lee and Anna Mosby; his son, Rev. Rufus Michael Mosby; his former wife, Eula Gary Mosby, special companion, Mattie Ross and sister Bernice (Mosby) Johnson.

He leaves to mourn four children: Ronald Johnson (Glenda), Dolvanya (Dolly) Mosby-Frith, Roderick Mosby and Melissa (Lisa) Mosby; five grandchildren: Nia Mosby, Veron Frith, Myisha Mosby, Da’syriah Mosby, and Eli Mosby; four great grands: Madyson Mosby, Mason Brooks, Primrose Golden, and Malayah Mack, one special niece/daughter Latha (Murphy) Speed; one step grandson Christopher Telfair; one bonus son, Daryl Gary; one Goddaughter Terri Hankerson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousin and friends.