Linzerl Jerome Rutledge

Linzerl (Earl) Jerome Rutledge, born on October 24, 1955, in Jacksonville, Florida, earned his heavenly wings on January 30, 2025, at the age of 69. Earl was a proud graduate of William Marion Raines High School, class of 1973, where he was an active member of both the marching and symphonic bands. He pursued higher education at Florida A&M University, graduating in 1978 with a degree in Music Education. During his time at FAMU, Earl was a dedicated member of the renowned FAMU Marching 100, playing in the trumpet section, and was also a member of the Kappa Kappa Psi Honorary Band Fraternity.
After completing his education, Earl began his career at Busch Gardens in Tampa, Florida. He was a committed member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Tampa Alumni Chapter.
Earl is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth Albeos Pan-Rutledge; his mother, Doris McNair Rutledge; his son, Linzerl Rutledge, Jr.; and his daughters, Jasmine Rutledge and Angel Rutledge. He is also survived by his brothers, Michael Rutledge and Kenneth Rutledge; his sister, Sherri Lynette Rutledge; his aunt, Betty Debose Watkins; and lifelong friends Juan and Zelda Phillips, along with many other friends, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
He was predeceased by his father, Joseph Rutledge; his brother, Kelvin Rutledge; and his sister, Angela Rutledge-Peraza.
Mr. Rutledge may be viewed on Friday, February 7, 2025, at Greater New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, 195 Tallulah Avenue, Jacksonville, Florida 32208, from 4:30 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Funeral Services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at the same location, with interment to follow in Evergreen Cemetery.