Ernest Ray Rutherford Sr.

Rutherford, Ernest Ray, Sr.
Passed on December 26, 2002 in Redlands, CA. He leaves a son, Ernest Ray Rutherford, Jr. in Naples, FL and a son Scott William Freistadt of Palmdale, CA; a daughter, Mary Gladys Gray of Victorville, CA and a daughter Michele Ann Freistadt of Palmdale, CA. He leaves 13 grandkids and four great-grandkids. Ernest, known as "Ray" by all his friends, was born in Sallis, MS April 12, 1927. He joined the United States Navy April 6, 1945 and was given the Victory Ribbon upon an Honorable Discharge on August 20, 1946. He met Gladys Odell Mikell on returning home and they married on February 20th, 1948. They moved to California in 1952. They purchased a home in Burbank, CA and started ther lives together in a prospering time. Ray was a Foreman/Superintendent in the construction business for 45 years. He also did extra work for several newspapers in the valley, the Los Angeles Times being one of those. He also leaves two sisters and three brothers. He was the oldest of eight. He loved his family and his Country. He was always happy and peaceful. He offered understanding and gave peace to others in stressful times. He was a rare and precious man and the greatest father ever. May he rest in peace in the Lord's house forever. Services will be held at Sunset Hills Memorial Park on January 13, 2003 at 10:00 a.m. Flowers can be sent to Sunset Hills, 24000 Waalew Rd., Apple Valley, CA 92307, fax 760-247-8545, FD 1460. Any donations may be given to The United States Navy in his memory and for all the brave men, those that are going to fight for our freedom. God Bless you Dad.