Betty Rutherford

Betty Carol Rutherford, a beloved member of the Paragould community, passed from this life on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at the age of 81. Born on August 11, 1943, in Little Rock, Betty lived a life filled with love, devotion, and service to her family and church. She dedicated her career as a school secretary in the education sector, showcasing her commitment and passion for aiding and supporting students and educators alike.

On May 7, 1967, she united in marriage with her cherished husband, Mike Rutherford, the love of her life. Through their union, they raised two sons, Kevin and Chad, who were the pride and joy of her life. Betty was actively involved in her local church, First United Methodist Church of Paragould, participating in various programs and committees that held deep personal meaning to her.

Betty was renowned for her green thumb, finding solace and joy in tending to her garden filled with a plethora of rose bushes, displaying her vibrant love of flowers. In her younger years, she shared a passion for playing Bridge and was an engaged member of Bridge Clubs, enjoying the social connection and strategic challenges the game provided.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 57 years, Mike Rutherford; her sons, Kevin of Jonesboro and Chad of Huntsville, Alabama, their spouses Michelle and Ava, respectively, as well as her cherished grandchildren, Brandon (Janie), Jenna, Daniel, and Jason Rutherford. Betty is also survived by her siblings, Michael Miller of Somerville, Tennessee, Jackie (Shirley) Miller of Marion, Joyce (Charlie) Wilson of Memphis, Freda (Al) Bertsch of Berne, Indiana, Sarah Shumpert of Bartlett, Tennessee, Lequita (Gary) Snuffin of Lakeland, Tennessee, and Sandi (Art) Angeletti of Crawfordsville, Arkansas, each of whom held a special place in her heart. Betty is preceded in death by her parents, Raymond Lee Miller, Sr. and Marion Elaine Chism Miller; brothers, Raymond Miller, Jr. and Ray Miller; and sister, Ruby Ellison.

A memorial service in honor of Betty Rutherford will be held at the First United Methodist Church in Paragould on Monday, August 26, 2024, at 1:00 pm with Revs. Dane Womack, Sarah Ellzey, and John Fleming officiating, where family, friends, and members of the community will come together to celebrate her life, legacy, and countless contributions. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorials be sent to the First United Methodist Church Building Fund, a cause close to Betty's heart.

Betty will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her unwavering love, kindness, and dedication to her family, friends, and faith. May her spirit live on in the cherished memories she leaves behind.