Bill Rutter, 71, passed away Dec. 29, 2011 at HospiceMinistries in Ridgeland of complications from a stroke.

 

    Visitation will take place on Monday, Jan. 2, at Harrigill FuneralHome in Brookhaven at 1 p.m. with a memorial service to follow at 3p.m.

    He was born to William Sherman and Doris Tyler Rutter in Brookhavenon June 2, 1940. He graduated from Baton Rouge High School in 1959.Bill also attended Kansas University and Jones County JuniorCollege. He worked as an ironworker in California, Nebraska andFlorida. He owned and operated Bill’s Body Shop and the Eleven MileTavern in Seffner, Fla. He was a member of The National Hot RodAssociation. Bill had a passion for working on cars and engines andenjoyed sharing his knowledge with his friends. His other hobbieswere gardening, playing poker and drag racing.

    In 1990, he returned to reside in Brookhaven and has driven aschool bus for the Brookhaven School District since 1991.

    He was preceded in death by his parents and ex-wife, Marguerite CoxWalters.

    He is survived by his daughter, Ramona Rutter Halaquist, ofGreeley, Colo., and stepdaughter, Robin Blaisdell, of Venice, Fla.He is also survived by his sister, Becky Rutter Manning and herhusband, Richard, of Madison; nieces, Doris Manning McTyre andElizabeth Manning; aunts, Waldaryn Rutter Busby, Helen DurhamGriffin, Mary Tilloson Tyler; and numerous cousins.

    His family wishes to thank Anthony Case and Frank and JoAnn Smithfor their friendship and help during Bill’s illness.