Mary Louise Rutledge

Mrs. Louise O'Neal Rutledge, age 88 of Calhoun, died Friday, October 4, 2013 in Floyd Medical Center following declining health.

Mrs. Rutledge was born in Floyd County on March 25, 1925, daughter of the late Marion Carol O'Neal and Eula Eva James O'Neal. In her early childhood she attended Coosa School until the fifth grade, and later finished her education at Model High School. She married Rex Rutledge, and prior to his death in 1984, they were blessed with 40 years of marriage. They owned and operated R&J Grocery on Highway 41 North in Calhoun until retirement. Their daughter, Janice Yvonne Rutledge preceded them in death in 1974. Louise was the definition of a Lady in every way. She was a member of Damascus Baptist Church where she was a teacher for the Adult Ladies Sunday School Class for more than 40 years, past President of the Women's Missionary Union, and sang in the church choir. She was also preceded in death by two brothers, Junior O'Neal and Louis O'Neal; and by two sisters, Alene Evans and Gay Williams.

Survivors include four sisters, Mae Johnson, Pearlie Barton, Dorothy Hootman and Pat Lowe; a brother, Leon O'Neal; and a special brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Roy and Kay Rutledge. A host of nieces, nephews and cousins also survive.

Funeral services for Mrs. Mary Louise O'Neal Rutledge will be conducted Sunday, October 6th at 3:00 PM from Damascus Baptist Church, with Rev. George Ross officiating. Music will be arranged by Linda Chadwick and Linda Sue Worley. Interment will follow in the family lot at Fain Cemetery. Pallbearers serving will include Wendell Bagley, James Hyde, Doug Sexton, Clifton Smith, Jeff Ruddell and Brody Henderson.

The family of Mrs. Rutledge will receive friends Sunday at 2:00 PM until the funeral hour of 3:00 PM at Damascus Baptist Church on US Highway 41 North in Calhoun. It was Louise's request that flowers be omitted and contributions be made to the American Cancer Society or Damascus Baptist Church.

Online condolences may be expressed and the guest book signed at www.maxbrannonandsons.com.

Max Brannon & Sons Funeral Home, a legacy of compassion and care, is in charge of the funeral arrangements for Mrs. Mary Louise O'Neal Rutledge of Calhoun.