William J. Rutherford Obituary
William J. Rutherford of Knoxville, Tennessee passed away on July 26, 2026. William, born on October 5, 1946, shared life alongside family, friends, and others. Family and friends can send flowers and/or light a candle as a loving gesture for their loved one. Leave a sympathy message to the family in the guestbook on this memorial page of William J. Rutherford to show support.
William will be remembered for the impact he had on the lives of those around him. Friends, family, and colleagues will cherish their memories and the time shared. Those who knew William will remember moments of kindness, warmth, and presence. Though words cannot fully capture his life, the legacy of connections and experiences remains. William’s absence will be deeply felt by those who valued his companionship.
He was predeceased by: his parents, W. S. Rutherford and Emily Rutherford. He is survived by: his wife Shirley Rutherford; his daughter Regina Rutherford Pethel (Ben); his grandsons, Benjamin Rutherford Pethel and William Alexander Pethel; and his sisters, Ann Floyd, Joy Saylors, Kay Duke (Tom) and Judy Eastin.
