Mr. Leland Carroll Ruef

Leland Carroll Ruef passed away in Columbia on October 16, 2023. He was known as Lee by his family and a large community of loving friends. Lee lived a long and meaningful life characterized by leadership in business and the media industry and further elevated by service to his community and church. He was born in Springfield, Ohio, the son of William Henry Ruef and Anna Marie Tonkinson Ruef. He attended public schools in Springfield and later attended Ohio University. Lee served in the United States Army and was stationed at Fort Gordon. He began a successful career in media after his military service, working first at The Augusta Chronicle and then at WIS-Radio and WIS-TV where he was a news commentator and popular on-air personality. Lee went on to serve as a staff member for U.S. Senator Ernest Frederick "Fritz" Hollings. He later returned to Columbia to establish the advertising firm, Cook-Ruef & Associates, one of the first successful national political consulting firms. Later in his career, Lee became Chief Executive Officer of the South Carolina Independent Insurance Agents group where he utilized his skills as a lobbyist and public policy expert. His work with Independent Insurance Agents raised visibility and understanding of the insurance industry across the state. Lee was an active, long-time member of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral and devoted his time and talents in many ways. He was a member of the Vestry, a lay reader, docent, and usher. When Trinity had a radio station many years ago, he was known as the “Voice of Trinity.” His beautiful baritone voice served him well in these experiences. One of Lee’s passions was engaging in countless hours of service through Trinity’s outreach program to W. A. Perry Middle School, where he served as a mentor to young people. Lee was a lifelong sports enthusiast and ardent fan of the South Carolina Gamecocks and Cincinnati Reds. He loved to play golf and the opportunity it provided him to spend time with his golf buddies. He was friendly and outgoing to all and never met a stranger. Lee was preceded in death by his wife Mary McCraw Ruef and his brother Monsignor James Le’Roy Tonkinson Ruef. He leaves behind his beloved Goddaughters, Elizabeth Love Wallace and Eliza Wolff Bostian. The memorial service for Mr. Ruef will be held at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral Saturday, October 21 , at 2 o’clock followed by interment in the church columbarium. A reception will be held immediately following in Satterlee Hall. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Trinity Foundation, 1100 Sumter Street, Columbia, SC 29201.

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Mr. Leland Carroll Ruef

February 28, 1938 - October 16, 2023