Norma Carr Ruffino's Obituary
Norma Carr-Ruffino, 93, passed away peacefully at home on January 6, 2026, in San Mateo, California. Born December 15, 1932, she was preceded in death by her husband, Fredo Ruffino.
She is survived by her children, Randy, Brian, and Erica, and stepdaughter Linda; seven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren, and her brother Jerry. Her favorite role was that of Nonna, and she proudly made sure everyone knew it. She cherished family gatherings, taking her grandchildren on trips, and sharing her love of books.
A formidable and brilliant woman, Norma earned her BA from Texas Wesleyan University, MA and PhD from the University of North Texas, and was a longtime professor of management at San Francisco State University. She authored influential books including Managing Diversity and The Promotable Woman.
To her family, she will always be Nonna—our compass, our fiercest advocate, and our favorite storyteller.
A memorial service will be held Friday, January 30, from 12–2 p.m. at Skylawn Funeral and Memorial Park, San Mateo County.
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