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Connell Funeral Home, Inc.

245 E. Broad Street

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Betty Rutledge Obituary

Betty J. Rutledge, 89, of Bethlehem Twp., passed away unexpectedly Sunday, November 12, 2023 at her residence. She was the wife of the late Richard "Dick" C. Rutledge, Sr. who died Nov. 25, 2017. Betty was born in Fountain Hill to the late Andrew J. and Josephine A. (Kolleogy) Zawadski. A graduate of Liberty High School, class of 1951, Betty dedicated her professional life to serving others. She was a respected secretary for the former Bethlehem Steel and later for Dr. Lentz, Dr. Schadt, and Dr. Conron, where her generosity and dedication were greatly valued. Betty was a faithful member of Sacred Heart Church, Bethlehem Twp. and its Prime Time Club.

Beyond her work, Betty had a deep love for her family, her friends, animals and a passion for cooking, with her buttermilk chicken being a favorite among her family. Those who knew Betty will remember her as generous, selfless, putting everyone else first. Her positive impact on those around her will not be forgotten.

Survivors: children: Richard C., Jr. (Karin) of Washington, D.C., Diana Lee (Timothy) Gaylor of Bethlehem Twp.; sister: Joanne Gibbs of Glenside; grandsons: Dustin Lee and Nathaniel; grand dog: Penny.

Service: Family and friends are invited to her viewing 9:30-10:45am Monday, November 20, 2023 at Sacred Heart Church, 1817 1st Street, Bethlehem, PA 18020 followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11am. The interment will be held at Holy Saviour Cemetery, Bethlehem. Online condolences may be offered at connellfuneral.com.

Contributions: in lieu of flowers memorials in her name may be made to her church.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Morning Call on Nov. 16, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Betty Rutledge

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Jessie (Lynn) Martinez

November 22, 2023

Betty was a gem of a human. Not only was she my mother´s first cousin, they were best friends. I remember times spent with her fondly. The last time I saw her was at my mother´s viewing in 2020. Getting a hug from her was like getting to hug my mother one last time. I will cherish it forever. I can only imagine what she and my mom are having a blast together catching up and having a drink with their Mom´s (Josie and Rosalie). Until we all meet again- save a seat for us at the table xxoo Love you. Jessica (Lynn) Martinez

Carla Martucci

November 16, 2023

Your mom was a wonderful, kind and loving person. She always wore her beautiful smile. She is now with your dad in Heaven. What a beautiful reunion that must have been. I´m sure they are happy to be together again.
Our love , thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

Love,
Carla and Tom Martucci

Michael E. Mohn

November 16, 2023

Rick,
On behalf of my family we send you and your family our deepest sympathies and prayers.
We are so sorry for your tremendous loss.
Your Mother was a beautiful, kind, caring person.
I know she is back with your father, and our Lord and Savior.
May she Rest in Eternal Peace .

Patty Novak

November 16, 2023

I am so sorry for your Loss. What a wondeful person she is and always will be.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

Patty Novak

Pat DeGinto

November 16, 2023

I offer my sympathy to Betty's family. I remember all the fun we had on our trips and miss them. She is now resting in the arms of the Lord. I will be out of town and am so sorry that I will miss her funeral.

Sue Thomas

November 16, 2023

Dear Diana,
I´m so sorry for the loss of your dear mother. My condolences to you and your family. I´m living in Colorado now with my son and his family. I´ll be thinking about you as you lay your mother to rest In Peace.
With deep sympathy

Pat Kauffman

November 16, 2023

Betty was a very friendly person who had a smile for everyone. May she rest in peace.

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Memorial Events
for Betty Rutledge

Nov

20

Viewing

9:30 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

1817 First St., Bethlehem, PA 18020

Nov

20

Mass of Christian Burial

11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

1817 First St., Bethlehem, PA 18020

Funeral services provided by:

Connell Funeral Home, Inc.

245 E. Broad Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018

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