Rufus Theodore “RT” Hereford, 87, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, in Fayetteville, Tennessee. Born on April 2, 1938, in Fayetteville, he lived a full and accomplished life rooted in his love of family, community and the land he cherished.
Rufus attended Kelso School, Central High School and Sewanee Military Academy before earning degrees from Middle Tennessee State University and LSU Banking School. His professional journey was marked by dedication and entrepreneurial spirit. He began as a correspondent for First American Bank before serving as President of Peoples Bank of Elk Valley. Rufus owned and operated Hereford Brothers Farms, Kelso General Store & Canoe Rental, Fayetteville Beauty School and Salon 201.
Rufus was a member of the Tennessee Bankers Association and served on the Tennessee State Board of Cosmetology. He also contributed to local causes as a member of Friends of the Elk River, the Kiwanis Club and the Kelso Cemetery Board. His commitment to service reflected his belief in giving back to the people and places that shaped his life.
Rufus loved spending time with his family and friends and enjoyed water skiing, fishing, hunting, camping, playing & watching sports and spending time on his farm. A man of faith, Rufus attended Kelso Cumberland Presbyterian Church and Fayetteville First Presbyterian Church.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Margaret Branham Hereford; children, Rebecca Shawn Brewer, Cowle Branham Hereford, Alicia Hereford (Lee) Maddox, Rufus Theodore Hereford, Jr., and Joseph Strong Hereford; Grandchildren, William Barrett Brewer, Lee Oscar Brewer, James Neal Brewer, Branham Payne Maddox, Louis Hereford Maddox, Joseph Strong “Jay” Hereford, Jr., and Sean Ben Hereford; as well as his aunt Gereline Scruggs Hereford; and numerous cousins. Rufus was predeceased by his parents, James Strong Hereford and Nell Cowley Hereford, and his brother James Strong Hereford, Jr.
A graveside service will be held at 3 PM on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Kelso Cemetery with Rev. Ann Hatcher and Rev. Tony Gaskin officiating. There will be no visitation prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Kelso Cumberland Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 28, Kelso, TN 37348, or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memorial Processing, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959.
Rufus’s legacy is one of hard work, devotion to family, and deep connection with his community.
Higgins Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family of Rufus Theodore “RT” Hereford.
