George M. "Butch" Rutherford

February 22, 1946 – October 15, 2026

A celebration of life service will be held at 1:30 pm on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at Northwest Veterans Cemetery in Keithville, Louisiana, with Pastor Buck Furlow officiating.

George M. "Butch" Rutherford was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and Papa whose life was defined by his love for family, faithful service, quick wit, and wonderful sense of humor. His memory will be honored through the many lives he touched and the generations who carry his love forward.

Butch was born on February 22, 1946, to Dorothy Wakefield Rutherford and G. W. Rutherford of Shreveport, Louisiana. After attending Fair Park High School, in 1964 he joined the Navy and served aboard the USS Bon Homme Richard with his best friend, Steve Bosher, during the Vietnam War.

After returning home, Butch met and married the love of his life, Linda Sullivan. Together, they shared 59 years of marriage filled with love, family, friendship, and adventure.

In 1993, they built their forever home on Cypress Lake in Benton Louisiana where holiday gatherings and many precious memories were made. After settling in Benton, Butch and Linda became members of Red River Baptist Church.

Butch retired from Roadway Express after 25 years of dedicated service and more than 2 million safe-driving miles. In retirement, he and Linda enjoyed traveling with longtime friends and making memories together.

Butch was a gifted storyteller whose quick wit, wonderful sense of humor, and memorable personality could hold the attention of everyone around him. His funny stories and contagious laughter brought joy to family and friends, and his ability to make people smile will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 59 years, Linda Rutherford; sons, David Rutherford (Amy) and Matt Rutherford; his daughter, Angela Thibodeaux (Chad); his grandchildren, Nathan Rutherford (Cecelia), Parker Rutherford, Emily Rutherford, Allison Rutherford, Ella Rutherford, Ava Thibodeaux, and Cameron Thibodeaux; and his great-grandchildren, Caroline Rutherford, Ivy Rutherford, and Maddie Kate Rutherford.

On October 15, 2026, Butch was welcomed into his Savior's arms. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy of love, laughter, devotion, and cherished memories will live on through his family and all who knew him.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the entire Nightingale Hospice staff for the compassionate care, kindness, and support given to Butch and his loved ones. Their presence and dedication brought comfort during a difficult time and will always be remembered with deep appreciation.