Loretta Townsend Rutland

Loretta Townsend Rutland, 83, of Ruth, passed away Jan. 6, 2023, at her daughter’s residence in Monticello. Loretta was born Dec. 21, 1939, in Brookhaven to James Townsend and Jennie Greer Townsend-Davis.
A funeral service was held Jan. 9 at Wilson Funeral Home in Monticello, followed by graveside service at Providence Baptist Church Cemetery in Jayess. Bro. Jeffery Conn officiated, with Wilson Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.
Loretta was a licensed practical nurse for over seven years. Afterwards, she became a cosmetologist-barber for over 10 years. She dedicated her later years to caring for her grandchildren. She always loved working with the public and serving others. She was always present with joy and laughter through good times and bad. She always said, “If I’m not joking, I’m not coping.”
Loretta was preceded in death by her parents; husband of 63 years, Gordon Lane Rutland; her son, Timothy Lane Rutland; sister, Ramona Rutland; and brother, James Riley Townsend.
Loretta is survived by her son, Gordon A. Rutland, of Ruth; daughter Jennifer Sikes (Kevin), of Monticello; grandchildren, Gage Brister (Rachel) and Grace Sikes Viniard (Dalton); one great-grandson, Noah Gage Brister, all of Monticello; one brother, Charles Nicholson Davis, of Brookhaven; and a host of nieces and nephews.