Ferrell Rutherford 1952-2025

Born in Braceville, he was the son of the late Ervin Rutherford Sr. and Doris Taylor Summers.

On July 29, 1972, he married the love of his life, Deborah L. Turkovich, with whom he shared 53 wonderful years of marriage.

Shorty was employed at General Motors Lordstown for 46 years, retiring in 2017. During his tenure he was active in the union, serving in various leadership positions including his last, the top administrative assistant to the UAW Shop Chairman.

In addition to his professional contributions, he was committed to his community. He was a member of the Mercy in Action Ministry in Warren where he was a board member and head of their food pantry.

Shorty enjoyed fishing and cherished family vacations, particularly cruises with family and friends. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and served those around him at the drop of a hat. He loved his family and loved to spend time with them. He also had a love for junk food, which would usually be accompanied by his bragging about the new record of ice cream cones he ate on his most recent cruise and was an ice cream connoisseur. This gives a glimpse of his ability to always bring a smile to someone’s face and not take life too seriously, while helping others to do the same.

Shorty had a strong work ethic that was passed on to the generations after him.

Surviving are his wife, Deborah L. Rutherford; sons, James Rutherford, Joe Rutherford and John (Nicole) Rutherford; grandchildren, Jake (Averi) Rutherford, Lauren (Jason) Perkins, Justin (Hannah) Rutherford, Cassandra Pleacher, Madison, Johnny and Rocco Rutherford; four great-grandchildren; sisters, Sue Brady-Rosado, Helen (Tom) Johnson and Doris (Bill) Pogue; and brothers, George (Cindy) Rutherford Sr., John (Michelle) Rutherford and Ervin (Kathy) Rutherford Jr.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ervin Rutherford Sr. and Doris Taylor Summers; brothers, Fred Rutherford and Earl Wayne Rutherford Sr.; and daughter-in-law, Julie R. Rutherford (James’ wife).

The memory of his jokes — pranks, laughter, servant heart, love for those around him, provides warmth and comfort to those grieving this difficult time and will live on for years to come. He had a one of a kind feel about him and he will be dearly missed. Most of all, Shorty will forever be remembered as a great provider and giver to his family and his friends.

Calling hours will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025, at the James Funeral Home in Newton Falls. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2025, at the Mercy in Action Ministries Church in Warren.

Shorty will be laid to rest in Braceville Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that all donations be made to the Mercy in Action Ministry Food Pantry, 3555 Tod Ave. NW, Warren, OH 44485, in his memory.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the James Funeral Home, 8 East Broad St., Newton Falls, OH 44444; 330-872-5440.

Family and friends may view his obituary online or to send condolences, visit us at www.jamesfuneralhomeinc.com

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