WALTER ‘JOE’ EDWARD RUTHERFORD
Walter “Joe” Edward Rutherford passed away on Sept. 5, 2021, at his home in Coolidge, at the age of 78. Graveside services were to be held at 10 a.m., Friday. Sept. 10, in the Coolidge Cemetery with the Rev. Chuck Sturgeon officiating.
Joe was born Jan. 11, 1943, in Terrell, to Walter W. and Emma Jewel (Hill) Rutherford. He served his country in the U.S. Army. Joe married Tommy A. Hines on Jan. 31, 1981, in Irving. He was a butcher for Safeway for 20 years, before doing what he really loved, ranching. He raised cattle, hay, and thoroughly enjoyed everything that pertained to being a cowboy and ranching.
Joe was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather. He loved God and his community. He was always there to lend a helping hand. He loved helping young people with animal husbandry. Joe was proud to have received recognition for helping with the FFA. He loved being a part of the Coolidge community and the churches, and helping with all the different events that took place. One of his many high lights in life was the 1995 cattle drive from Ft. Worth to Miles City, Mont. Joe had too many wonderful experiences during his life, with his family and friends, to list them all. We loved him dearly, and he will be greatly missed.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Emma Rutherford.
Joe is survived by his wife, Tommy Rutherford; children Donna J. Rutherford, Cody A. Rutherford and wife Jodi, and J. Shane Rutherford and wife Erika; grandchildren Justin Edward Rutherford, Raychel Elaine Rutherford; and brothers Don Rutherford Sr. of Mesquite and Paul Rutherford of Houston.
Visit www.blair-stubbs. com to leave the family a message of condolence or sign the guestbook.
