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James Rutherford Obituary
June 19, 1940 - July 4, 2024
Raleigh, North Carolina - James (Jim) Herdman Rutherford, 84, passed away on July 4, 2024, in Raleigh, NC. Born on June 19, 1940, in Bronxville, NY, he was a son to the late George Herdman Rutherford and Isabel Fuller Rutherford.
James graduated from Michigan State University in East Lansing, MI in 1962. He then proudly served in the US Army for three years, dedicating himself to the service of his country. After his military service, he furthered his education, earning a master's degree in education from Fordham University in New York City, where he cultivated a passion for history and economics. This passion led him to a fulfilling career as a teacher at Charlotte Latin High School in Charlotte, NC, where he influenced many young minds.
Beyond his professional life, James was an avid sports enthusiast, reader and enjoyed gardening, often found with a book in one hand and a watering can in the other. His cultivation of plants was a testament to his curiosity, tenacity, creativity and passion, much like his teaching.
James is survived by his three children: Maya Rutherford of Charlotte, NC, David Rutherford and wife Angela (Perrou) of Raleigh, NC, Paul Rutherford and wife Katherine (Heine) of Charlotte, NC; five grandchildren: Alaina, Bennett, Madeline, Kayley and Alyssa; sisters Anne Lower of Richmond, VA and Judy Sewell of St. Catherine's, Ontario.
A private memorial / celebration of life will be determined at a later date.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Rutherford
4 Entries
Julia (Milton) Corley
July 22, 2024
I LOVED Mr. Rutherford´s class! He brought history to life for me in a way no teacher had before. He was such a gifted teacher who made such an impact.
Jenny McDonald Willard
July 17, 2024
On behalf of the Duran and Mary Ann McDonald family, we remember Jim/Mr. Rutherford very fondly. We are so sorry for your loss.
I consider myself so lucky to have had him as a teacher. His WILD pants and unique style of teaching will be remembered always.
Jenny McDonald Willard
Mark Davis
July 17, 2024
Mr Rutherford was a great teacher, mentor and neighbor. Eight grade economics with "Slick" was probably the most interesting and motivating classes I took at Latin. I am so sorry for David, Maya and Paul. I spent many a day and a fair amount of sleepovers at the Rutherford´s in my childhood. If you were to have heard his stories of Russia, consider yourself fortunate. Best wishes to the family.
Alison Letson Bullard (1991 Alum)
July 17, 2024
Mr Rutherford was by far one of the best teachers I had while at Latin. He truly cared for his students and wanted them to succeed. My condolences to his family.
Alison Letson Bullard (1991 Alum)
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