Edna Jane Pennington Rutherford, born May 11, 1938, passed away on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, into the loving arms of Jesus. Jane was a loving mother, devoted grandmother and great-grandmother, and a faithful friend to all. Throughout her career, Jane was employed by Union Planters Bank and Northwest Airlines.
She is survived by her sons, Donald L. Rutherford Jr. and his wife, Jamie, and Timothy A. Rutherford and his wife, Monique, all of whom she loved very much. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Brad Rutherford (Kimberly), Marianna Rutherford Vescovo (Nic), Jeremy Dieck, Donald L. Rutherford III (Chelsea), and Samantha Rutherford (Sebastian), and her 10 great-grandchildren, Christopher, Brayden, Charlee, Max, Eva, Zak, Adair, Libby, Tristen, and Scout, who were the loves of her life. She is also survived by her brother, Lon “Bickie” Pennington; her adopted daughters, Shelaine Pennington and Kim Daily; and many extended family members and friends who she treasured dearly.
Jane was preceded in death by her husband, Donald L. Rutherford Sr.; her parents, Lon and Lillian Pennington; her sisters, Rachel Thornton and Audrey Hopkins; her brothers, Jack Pennington and Ralph Pennington; and her grandson, Zachary Rutherford, who she adored.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Highland Baptist Church (140 CR 87, Dennis, MS 38838) on Friday, October 2, 2026, with Brother Mark Daily officiating. Visitation will be held at 11:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 1:00 p.m.
Pallbearers will be Brad Rutherford, Donald “Lil Donny” Rutherford III, Nic Vescovo, Roger Thornton, Steve Thornton, Shane Pennington, Bobby Pennington, and Jackie Pennington.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Highland Baptist Church Cemetery Fund. Address: Highland Baptist Church c/o Cemetery Fund, P.O. Box 65, Tishomingo, MS 38873.
