Linda Fay Rutherford

Linda Fay (Glenn) Rutherford, a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and dear friend, fell asleep in death on Monday, February 23, 2026. She was known for her kind, caring spirit and, above all, for her deep love for Jehovah God, whom she faithfully served for many years.

Linda was born on October 8, 1944, to Raymond Douglas Glenn and Mildred Austine Bryant, both of whom preceded her in death. She entered the world under humble and unexpected circumstances. Born prematurely, her first bed was lovingly fashioned from a dresser drawer, carefully prepared by her father to provide a safe and comfortable place for his newborn daughter—an early reflection of the resilience and care that would characterize her life.

She grew up in Trussville, Alabama, a place that always remained close to her heart, alongside her siblings, Phyllis Anderson (Jim), Gloria Dorman (William), and brother Joseph Glenn(deceased). As a young girl, Linda enjoyed spending time outdoors and being with her family, forming memories that would stay with her throughout her life, especially her grandfather who would always talk to her about the Bible.

Linda married Arthur Kellie Rutherford, Sr. (deceased), June 29, 1962 and together they shared many years as husband and wife. She always remembered her wedding day as a meaningful and joyful occasion, as part of their honeymoon they joined their bowling league for competition night.

Linda was a devoted mother who took great pride in raising her children. She is survived by her children, Denise Murphy (Link), Arthur Rutherford, Jr. (Jennifer), James Rutherford, and Jonathan Rutherford (Amanda). In addition to raising her own children, Linda showed extraordinary love and dedication by raising her great-grandson, Tommy "TJ" Reed, for approximately 15 years. She provided steady guidance, care, and support, taking a special interest in helping him come to know and serve Jehovah—something that brought her great joy.

She was also blessed with many grandchildren Jessica Blakely (Matt), Jeremy Lacey (Sarah), Joy Pierron (Joe), Samuel Rutherford (Autumn), Elana Rutherford, Natalie Rutherford, Katrina Gorman (Ryan), Sarah Bryant, Savannah Schoenebeck (Levi), Kelisha Casey (Andrew), Julie Reza (Alex), April Faulk (Freddy), Daphne Rutherford, Joshua Rutherford, Hannah Rutherford, and great-grandchildren Lucian Blakely (Kayla),Grayson Blakely, Julie Lacey, Tyler Ruxlow, Jada Washam, Kloe Washam, Isabella, Ollie, Roland, Bentley, Hayleigh, Annabelle, Oliver, Payton, Mason, Claire and 4 more, each of whom she loved and cared about deeply. 

She experienced deep sorrow with the loss of her son, Joseph Chestly Rutherford. This loss remained close to her heart over the years, yet she found comfort and strength in Jehovah and in the promises found in His Word, especially the hope of the resurrection.

A significant turning point in Linda’s life came when someone called at her door and spoke with her about the Bible. Having many sincere questions, she eagerly sought answers and arranged to continue learning. This began her journey of studying God’s Word. In time, she dedicated her life to Jehovah and was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in March of 1969, faithfully serving Him for more than 50 years until her death.

From that point forward, her faith became the center of her life. Linda spent many hours studying the Bible and sharing its message with others. She found great joy in speaking about the truths she had come to love and was never hesitant to engage with anyone willing to listen. She took great satisfaction in helping others learn about Jehovah, watching them grow in knowledge and faith, and seeing them go on to share those same truths with others.

Linda was known for her sincerity, determination, and strong sense of responsibility. She was never content to do the bare minimum in her service to Jehovah—she always felt she could do more. Her perseverance, genuine care for others, and love for the ministry left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

In addition to her spiritual activities, Linda had a creative and artistic nature. She enjoyed sewing and worked as a seamstress at Blue Bell Industries. She also had a deep appreciation for nature and found joy in the simple beauty of her surroundings.

Above all, Linda will be remembered as a devoted servant of Jehovah, a loving and selfless mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and a loyal friend. Her life was guided by her faith, and she looked forward with confidence to the fulfillment of Jehovah’s promises.

Linda will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. However, her family and friends take comfort in the sure hope of seeing her again in the resurrection, as promised in God’s Word.

Visitation will be held on Friday, April 10, 2026 from 3:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M., and from 9:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home.

Memorial Services will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at 1:00 P.M. at Roebuck Kingdom Hall with Graveside Services to follow at 2:30 P.M. at Jefferson Memorial Gardens – East.