Virgil Ray Rutledge, 78, of Beaumont, passed away in his daughter’s home on Sunday, February 9, 2014. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in December of 2013. Virgil was born in Rosedale, Texas, on September 16, 1935. He was a blacksmith by profession and worked in machine shops throughout East Texas. Virgil retired from Liberty Forge in Liberty, at the age of 67.
He is survived by his daughters, June Howell and Randy, of Neches; March Richardson and Dan Pool, of Lumberton; and April Chapa and Eladio, of Beaumont; and stepdaughter, Penny Anderson of Beaumont. Virgil also leaves sixteen grandchildren; nineteen great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Virgil was preceded to death by his son, Wendall Rutledge (nicknamed Bugger); parents, Albert and Ellen Rutledge; one sister; and six brothers.
A gathering of Mr. Rutledge’s family and friends will be from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Friday, February 14, 2014, at Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont. His funeral service will be 2:00 p.m., Saturday, February 15, 2014, at Broussard’s, with interment to follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Beaumont. Five grandsons and two nephews will serve as pallbearers.
Memorial contributions may be made to Nutrition and Services for Seniors, 4590 Concord Road, Beaumont, Texas 77703.
