Peggy Jean ‘Mitchell’ Rutherford succumbed to a brief illness in Batesville, AR, on Friday, May 15. She was born in Marcella, AR, on November 17, 1936, to Calvin and Alta Mitchell. Peggy and George Ewing Rutherford were united by marriage in 1955 and were married for 43 years until his death in 1998.
As perfect examples from her parents before her, Peggy’s main priorities were her faith and family. Alongside her husband George, they sacrificed much to provide a loving Christian home.
Peggy pursued employment outside the home after her children were old enough for school. She worked a number of years at White-Rodgers before retail sales with Barnett Brothers Department Store.
When time allowed, she traveled throughout the United States with her mother, Alta Mitchell, and her two sisters, Barbara Gibbens and Sharon Rogers.
Always industrious, both Peggy and George served the Arkansas Farm Bureau, including business trips to Mexico and Canada.
Peggy was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and an infant son, Calvin Neil Rutherford.
Survivors include her children: Bruce Rutherford (Pat), Brenda Rutherford, and Mitchell Rutherford. Her grandchildren: Jason Howell, Alex Minor, Mackenzie Rutherford, Sarah Rutherford, and Kyle Rutherford. Her great-grandchildren: Taylor Howell, Joël Martin Howell, Colton Howell, Abel Minor, Ember Minor, Madelyn Rutherford, Molly Rutherford, Jackson Rutherford. Her sisters: Barbara Gibbens (Jerry) and Sharon Rogers. As well as many nieces and nephews.
The Reverend Bob Dailey will conduct a private graveside service on Wednesday, May 20, with burial in the Rutherford Family Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations are welcome to the American Cancer Society.
Services entrusted to Willis Funeral Service.
