Richard Charles Rutherford

Richard "Dick" Rutherford, 91, passed away peacefully on March 5, 2026, in Canton, North Carolina. Born on January 5, 1935, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Milton Holly Rutherford and Hazel Miller Rutherford, Richard lived a life defined by hard work, devotion to his family, and an unwavering Christian faith.

Richard's early years were spent in Ohio, where he attended Taft Elementary in Lakeland. In 1948, his family relocated to Florida, where he graduated from New Smyrna Beach High School in 1952. He briefly attended Florida State University as a member of Phi Kappa Tau before answering the call to serve his country. In 1954, Richard joined the Army and completed basic training at Fort Jackson. He was stationed at the Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Maryland before serving with the 2nd Armored Division and later the 67th Tank Battalion Division HQ in Germany. After completing his tour of duty overseas, Richard returned to the United States and continued his military service with the Army Reserves.

Richard married the love of his life, Doris Ann "Dodie" Rutherford, and shared a lifetime of memories until her passing. Together, they raised four children: Kevin Dean Rutherford (Sherrill Wall), Kathleen Ann Rathbone (Jeff), Kelly Lynn Bowman (Lowell), and Christopher Daniel Rutherford (Marsha McClaugherty). Richard was also a proud grandfather to Nicholas Rutherford; Justin Rathbone; Jared and Amanda Rathbone; Mallory and Cody Fouts; Chelsea and Rob Painter; and Lowell Thomas and Stevie Bowman; Elliotte Joseph Rutherford; Jeremiah and Cora Rutherford; Eli Rutherford. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren: Mason, Ali, Jackson, Levi, Kortland, Kamryn, Kiley, Thomas, Max, Heidi, Hadley, and Hollin.

Richard's professional journey was as diverse as it was inspiring. From working on family farms and in his parents' bakery during his youth to driving ambulances and taxis, moving furniture, and working for the railroad—he approached every job with dedication. In 1959, he began his career as a postman before transitioning into sales in 1965. He excelled as a top salesman for 60-Minute Cleaners before becoming a motel owner and President of the Chamber of Commerce in Maggie Valley, North Carolina. However, it was his role as a traveling salesman for FISI that defined much of his career. Over more than 35 years with the company—and well into his 80s—Richard earned respect as an executive salesman who gave his all in every endeavor.

A man of deep faith, Richard's spiritual journey began in childhood at a Presbyterian church in Lakewood, Ohio. After moving to Florida, he attended the Congregational Lutheran Church in New Smyrna Beach. Later in life, he became deeply involved with Broad Street Methodist Church and Union Grove Methodist Church in North Carolina. His commitment to ministry extended beyond worship services—he sang in the choir for many years and tutored middle school students through church programs well into his later years. Richard also hosted a foreign exchange student from Estonia named Taavi Hollman. Their bond grew so strong that Richard helped Taavi establish a church in Tallinn, Estonia—a testament to Richard's dedication to spreading faith and compassion.

Richard's passions were as varied as his accomplishments. He enjoyed playing football during his youth and remained an avid sports fan throughout his life. He loved music, reading about history—particularly church history—traveling with family and friends, camping under the stars, fishing by serene waters, playing tennis with vigor, marveling at Arabian show horses, and indulging his lifelong fascination with trains.

Above all else, Richard will be remembered as a devoted husband and father who instilled strong values of love and hard work in his family. His children fondly recall him as their rock during challenging times—a source of wisdom who offered sound advice without judgment yet always encouraged thoughtful decision-making. His strength of character was matched only by his gentle compassion for those around him.

In addition to his children and grandchildren, Richard is survived by his brother James Holly Rutherford (Gail Fuller); nieces and nephews Michael Rutherford, Keith Rutherford, Penni Vachon, Jenny Frey, Jerry Daniel, Kim Carberry; as well as many others.

He was preceded in death by his lovingly devoted wife Dodie (2004), with whom he built a beautiful family, and his second wife Madelyn Sloan (2017), who was a steadfast companion in later years.

Richard’s life was one of purpose—a proud Army veteran who served his country honorably; a respected businessman who worked tirelessly; a church leader who inspired others through faith; and above all else—a loving husband and father whose legacy lives on through the lives he touched.

The funeral service for Mr. Rutherford will be held Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 11:00 am in the Nicholson Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery.

May Richard’s memory bring comfort to all who knew him. His enduring love will forever remain in our hearts with God.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital by clicking below. 

Nicholson Funeral Home is honored to serve the Rutherford family.