Willodean Charlotte (Cleckler) Rutherford

WILLODEAN CHARLOTTE (CLECKLER) RUTHERFORD, age 93, of the Union Grove Community in Jemison, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2025, at her residence. She was born in Chilton County on December 20, 1931, the daughter of the late Posey Cleckler and the late Susie Sammons Cleckler.

Willodean was the very picture of a true Southern lady—gracious, kind, and steadfast in her love for both family and faith. She spent most of her working years as a bookkeeper, serving with dedication and care for those she worked alongside.

A talented seamstress, she loved to sew and create things with her hands, a gift that could be seen in the many sewing machines she owned and the countless projects she lovingly completed. She took great pride in her home and garden, tending her flowers and plants with the same gentle devotion she gave to those around her.

In her later years, she found sweet companionship in her beloved little dog, Benjie. Before her husband’s passing, she and Bobby cherished their time spent together on the river. She delighted in sitting by the water’s edge, watching him fish, and taking in the simple beauty of God’s creation.

Willodean was a faithful member of Union Grove Baptist Church, where she attended as long as her health allowed. Her quiet faith and loving spirit were a steady presence to all who knew her. Above all else, she will be remembered for the deep and unwavering love she held for her family.

She is survived by her son, Vance (Michelle) Rutherford of Auburn; granddaughters, Callie (Robby) Martin of Jemison, Susie (Ross) Bagwell of Lewisville, TX, and Sydney Rutherford of New York, NY; grandson, Chris (Kelly) Rutherford of Bremen, GA; great-granddaughters, Ellie Bagwell, Maggie Bagwell, Rilee Martin, Krystal Rutherford, and Audri (Josiah Bartz) Bearden; great-grandsons, Grant Martin and Wade Rutherford; great-great-granddaughter, Josie Woody; and great-great-grandson, Jaxson Odom.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bobby Frank Rutherford, and her son, Richey Rutherford.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. from Union Grove Baptist Church with Rev. Ken Wren officiating.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church.

Burial will follow in the Mineral Springs Baptist Cemetery in Clanton, AL.

“Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.” – Proverbs 31:25 (KJV)

Final care and arrangements entrusted to the Ellison Memorial Funeral Home of Clanton, AL.

www.EllisonMemorialFuneralHome.com