Celebrating Johnny Ruffo: Details revealed for a heartfelt memorial service

In a bittersweet moment for fans around the nation, details of the memorial service for the late Johnny Ruffo have been revealed, which will surely be as vibrant and unforgettable as the man himself.

Ruffo passed away at the age of 35 on Friday, November 10 after a long battle with brain cancer, triggering an outpouring of grief from fans and those close to him. The devastating news of his passing was announced via a statement on social media

“It is with a heavy heart that today we had to farewell our beloved Johnny,” the statement read.

“Surrounded by his partner Tahnee and family, Johnny went peacefully with the support of some incredible Nurses & Doctors.

“He was a very talented, charming and sometimes cheeky boy. Johnny was very determined and had a strong will. He battled all the way to the end and fought as hard as he could. Such a beautiful soul with so much more to give.

“We all love you Johnny and will remember you for all the joy you brought to our lives.

“Rest easy.”

As the news of Ruffo’s passing continues to reverberate, plans are underway to pay tribute to the beloved entertainer in a heartfelt ceremony. His family took to Ruffo’s Instagram page on Monday, November 20 to unveil the details of the memorial service.

Ruffo will be farewelled at a service held at Balcatta Senior High School on Saturday, November 25. The ceremony, slated to commence at 12:30 pm, comes with a gentle reminder for attendees that there will be “strictly no cameras or filming”.

Accompanying the announcement was a poignant image of Ruffo, dressed in a stylish black tuxedo.

 

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A post shared by Johnny Ruffo (@johnny_ruffo)

Ruffo’s former Home and Away co-star and close friend Lynne McGranger is expected to deliver a eulogy during the service.

McGranger recently took to social media to reflect on the profound loss and to pay tribute to her friend, describing him as someone who “fought like a warrior”.

“He was our friend and we loved him. But more than that he was a beloved son to Jill, a soulmate to his darling Tahnee, a brother to Michael , a cousin, and a precious grandson to his dearest Nonna,” she wrote.

“He fought like a warrior and was brave and cheeky to the end. Talented, funny, loyal and naughty – we love you my friend. Fly high free from pain. You are missed.”

 

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A post shared by Lynne McGranger (@lynnemcgranger)

In 2017, Ruffo’s life took a harrowing turn when what he thought was a migraine turned out to be a severe brain tumor. Recounting the chilling episode on Who Magazine’s podcast Who Are You in 2018, Ruffo shared how his girlfriend’s swift action, rushing him to the hospital, saved his life.

Initially dismissed as a mere migraine, Ruffo’s situation took a tragic turn overnight. He slipped into a coma due to a fist-sized tumor in his brain, possibly growing for a decade. The gravity of the situation became apparent the next morning when doctors informed Ruffo’s girlfriend that he might not have survived the night without intervention.

Following a successful tumor removal in 2017, Ruffo delivered heartbreaking news in 2020, revealing the return of his brain cancer.

Throughout his health battle, Ruffo maintained a strong connection with fans, regularly sharing updates on social media to provide insights into his ongoing fight against brain cancer.