Joseph "Joe" Frank Rutherford

On July 31, 2024, Joseph (“Joe”) Frank Rutherford (80) of Salem, VA went to the arms of Jesus. Joe was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon (“Sherry”) Cregger Rutherford; his infant son, David McKinley Rutherford; his parents, Arlie and Irene Rutherford; and his parents-in law, Clark M., Jr. and Opal Cregger. Joe is survived by his daughters and their spouses Cristi & Allen LaPrad and Dara & Christopher Reese; his grandchildren Madeleine LaPrad (fiancé Derick Hall), Claire LaPrad, Mallory LaPrad (significant other, Matthew Razvillas), and Miller LaPrad; his sisters, Linda (Jack) McCray and Carolyn Fields; his special uncle, Cecil Hall; his brothers- and sisters-in law Clark M., III & Suzette Cregger, Clark & Debby Wade, and Mark & Debbie Cregger; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Joe never met a stranger and will also be missed by those he met as a truck driver for Kroger, as a member of the board of Kemba Credit Union, and as a longtime resident of Salem. Joe was a long-term member of the Salem Church of Christ where he served in numerous capacities including Sunday School Superintendent, Deacon, and Elder. Joe took a special interest in the youth programs and mission programs at the church, and he never turned down an opportunity to serve.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Salem Church of Christ located at 401 W. Main Street, Salem, VA 24153) on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Thailand Missions fund at the Salem Church of Christ. “Death for the Christian is to fall asleep in the arms of Jesus and wake up and find out you’re home.”

Online condolences may be expressed by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.