“To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; A time to mourn, and a time to dance…”

Ecclesiastes 3:1–4

Ferdinand Recardo Ruglass 

Sunrise: October 17th, 1945 

Sunset: May 1st, 2026

Ferdinand Recardo Ruglass, lovingly known as Skiffy, Dread, Errol, or simply Dad, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 1, 2026, in Cibolo, Texas, at the age of 80.

He was born on October 17, 1945, in Kingston, Jamaica, West Indies, to Durvan Ruglass and Anitta Raphael. Raised with a deep sense of curiosity and adventure, Ferdinand embraced life fully from a young age despite the traumas he endured. He spent his early years playing soccer, watching horse races, writing poetry and songs, and enjoying time at the beach with friends. Though his formal education ended in high school, he remained a lifelong learner and often reminded others that “education is power and it can open many doors.”

In 1989, he immigrated to Cambridge, MA to be with his wife and three daughters, who had previously immigrated in 1987. Ferdinand lived a life defined by hard work, creativity, and connection. Over the years, he held many roles — working as a postman, in a mailroom, driving Green Cab #69, and later greeting customers at Walmart during his retirement. Yet, his greatest joy and proudest calling was music.

Known for his rich, golden voice and magnetic presence, Skiffy was a beloved figure in Boston’s reggae community. He co-founded the band Rockers International in the early 1990s, which later evolved into Dub Station. He performed hundreds of live shows and contributed to numerous recordings, including their first self-titled album. A fixture at Bill’s Bar in Boston for years, he also collaborated with bands such as the I-Tones, Hot Like Fire, Dub Down, and I-Vibes. He helped launch the Tuesday night reggae series at Bull McCabe’s Pub with the Ghetto People Band, leaving a lasting imprint on the local music scene. To many, he was more than a performer—he was a storyteller, a jokester, and a source of warmth, laughter, and joy.

Ferdinand had a deep love for Boston sports, especially the Celtics and Red Sox, and in recent years, he found great pride in watching his grandson (Bryce) play college basketball and his granddaughter (Zoe) play volleyball. He had a gift for making people laugh—often with his signature corny jokes—and was widely known for his kindness. As one friend shared, “To know Skiffy was to love Skiffy.”

He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who believed deeply in encouraging others to pursue their dreams and never settle for less. His presence brought warmth, laughter, and meaning to the lives of those around him.

Ferdinand is survived by his beloved wife, Joan Ruglass; his children, Antonio Ruglass, Tracy-Ann Ruglass, Lesia Ruglass, Marlon Ruglass, Shauna-Lee Ruglass, Tishauna McMaster-Isaacs, Andre Joseph Ruglass Williams, and Gabrielle Bovenzi; and his cherished grandchildren, Bryce Ruglass Dortch, Zoe Ruglass, Henry Ruglass Schumann, Shantel Ruglass, Jasmine Ruglass, Lashanda Ruglass, Antonio Ruglass Jr., Tariq Ruglass, Mikhail Ruglass, Zackary Ruglass, Zyon Ruglass, Kelcie Bagaloo, and Khloe Bagaloo. He also leaves behind several great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and an abundance of friends who will carry his memory forward.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Durvan Ruglass and Anitta Raphael; his brothers, Joe Ruglass and George Ruglass; his sister, Lucille Dixon; and his son, Sheldon Ruglass.

A viewing and celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at Schertz Funeral Home in Schertz, Texas.

● Family Viewing: 9:00 AM

● Public Viewing: 10:00 AM

● Service: 11:00 AM

For those unable to attend in person, a livestream will be available for 24 hours.

Ferdinand’s legacy lives on in the music he shared, the laughter he sparked, and the love he gave so freely. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

And I know he’s feeling extra proud and grateful that we’ll play one last Keno 9-spot with his numbers, as he always did with our phone numbers and birthdays!