James Guy Rutherford, age 57, of Adrian, died unexpectedly at his home on Tuesday, December 3, 2024. He was the firstborn child of the late Thomas and Judy (Blanchard) Rutherford on February 20, 1967.
James grew up in Hillsdale County and was a 1985 graduate of Hillsdale High School. He met his former wife, Rebecca, in school, and they married on October 15, 1993. James and Rebecca made their home in Adrian where they raised their three children.
James was a former employee of Adrian Steel, and was currently working at Advance Auto Parts on Main Street in Adrian. He loved working on cars, fishing anywhere he could, and was a fan of any guitar music. He was skilled at cooking, and he enjoyed grilling and preparing meals for his family. An animal lover, he always had pets in the house; he enjoyed people as well, never shy in his interactions with those he encountered.
Surviving are five children, James (Meghan) Rutherford of Adrian, Breanna Rutherford (Justin Burgess) of Jackson, Wyatt Rutherford of Adrian, Christopher (Krystle) Otis of Jonesville, and Andrew Tasker. He also leaves behind a sister, Tina Summers of KY; a brother, Tom (Teresa) Rutherford of Hillsdale; and five grandchildren, Ashton, Aaron, Avrie, Ashton, and Cameron.
Cremation will take place. The family will receive friends at the Anderson-Marry Funeral Home, Adrian, on Sunday, December 8, 2024, from 12:00 p.m. until a memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Private inurnment will take place in Lenawee Hills Memorial Park in Adrian.
Memorial contributions can be made in honor of James to benefit the Lenawee Humane Society. Friends can express sympathies to the family online by visiting the tribute wall at www.andersonfuneralservices.com. Arrangements have been made with the guidance of the Anderson-Marry Funeral Home, Adrian.