Rutherford, James S. 1831-1906

RUTHERFORD, PEARCE

Posted By: Marilyn Holmes (email)
Date: 8/6/2010 at 10:34:14

The Grinnell Herald (Grinnell, Iowa) Dec. 18, 1906

JAMES S. RUTHERFORD

It came as a distinct shock Saturday morning to a large number of friends to learn that during the night Mr. James S. Rutherford had passed away. Tho he had reached nearly 76 years of age he still seemed to all to be a strong and vigorous man and none were prepared for the sad news. His death apparently was due to heart failure and he could have suffered but little pain.

During the past year his home has been with his daughter, Mrs. S.J. Pearce.

In the night a noise was heard in his room and when a member of the family reached it he had fallen and all was over.

The funeral was held yesterday afternoon at the Congregational church of which he was a member, conducted by Rev. E.M. Vittum and the body was laid away in Hazelwood beside that of his wife who died three years ago. Music was by Misses Wheelock and Bartlett and Messrs. Parish and Crane. Bearers were long time friends W.R. Scandrett, M.A. Sears, S.D. Ward, C.G. Hodgdon, H.A. Woodford and N.O. Pilgrim.

Mr. Rutherford was born in South Scotland in 1831. While yet a baby his parents came to New York where the Rutherford name is still a frequent one and where they have established a reputation as among the best citizens. Of sturdy stock James Rutherford combined all the good qualities of a family whose lineage has been an honorable one, extending back to the time of William the Conqueror. At the age of 27 he married at Guelph, Can., the lady who preceded him to the grave three years. Forty years ago he settled in Chester and for 27 years no one in all that excellent community was more highly trusted. Here he gave the best of his life to the world and as deacon in the church and Sunday school teacher he left an impress upon all that will long be remembered. No one ever accused him of a mean act. He had a high standard of honor and he lived up to that standard with all the exactness of a true man and father. As a neighbor he was kind and generous. He was of a genial disposition and made many friends. It has been our privilege to know few men who have equaled him in the sterling qualities that make true manhood and we are sure none have surpassed him. Since 1893 he has lived near Grinnell.

He leaves one daughter, Mrs. Pearce and four sons, John S., Arthur, Raymond and George to remember his pure and holy life and to cherish in memory his years of active Christian service.