Janice Rutherford

Janice Viera Rutherford, 77, of Melbourne, FL (formerly of Geneseo, IL), passed away peacefully at her home on June 1, 2024, surrounded by her beloved family following a courageous battle with cancer. From the moment of her diagnosis, Jan faced her challenges with pragmatism and bravery, always prioritizing the well-being of others above her own. She departed this life in the same manner she lived each day: with kindness, grace, and an enduring sense of humor.

Born on October 16, 1946, in San Francisco, CA, to John and Barbara (Nunes) Viera, Jan graduated from San Rafael High School before attending San Diego State University. There, she joined Sigma Kappa and earned a bachelor’s degree in physical education. In 1969, Jan embarked on a career with United Airlines as a flight attendant, serving various routes from Washington to Florida.

In 1983, Jan married Dr. William Leslie Rutherford, Jr. (Bill), blending their families, which included her sons, John and Michael, and Bill’s daughters, Amy and Katie. The joyous addition of their daughter, Ann, in 1984, completed their family. The following years until the early 2000s were filled with cherished family gatherings with Bill’s parents, Hazel 'Hassie' and William 'Poppo’ Rutherford Sr., often meeting at the Wildlife Prairie Park in Peoria, Illinois, and Jan’s parents, Jack ‘Grandpa’ and Julia ‘Grandma’ Viera, often meeting in San Francisco or at Stinson Beach, California.

In 1993, the Rutherford family moved to Geneseo, Illinois, where Jan embraced rural life. She managed a home on five acres and tended to a vibrant garden, sheep, cattle, horses, llamas, chickens, turkeys, cats, and a beloved, kind-hearted Australian Shepherd named 'Sheila'. Jan’s kitchen was a hub of bread-making, canning, and a steady, heartfelt cooking that consistently delivered nourishing and delightful meals. Her nurturing extended beyond her garden to her children, whom she supported through music lessons, sports, and countless other activities. While the accomplishments of the men in the family have been celebrated, it was the steadfast support, unwavering commitment to family, and fierce work ethic of Jan and her mother-in-law, Hassie, that were crucial to enabling the family's successes.

She was a stalwart volunteer with the Geneseo Band Boosters and First Lutheran Church, and also played a pivotal role in establishing the Geneseo Shakespeare Festival.

Jan's wanderlust was fulfilled by her love for travel, particularly her joy in cruising and her enthusiasm for ships and port traffic at Port Canaveral. An avid player of games like Hearts, Words With Friends, and Balderdash, Jan also cherished the quiet moments spent reading to her children. Jan maintained numerous lifelong friendships, each marked by genuine connections that brought her joy and comfort.

Jan's bright wit could illuminate any room, and was shared most often, and perhaps most deeply, with her beloved son-in-law, Addam.

She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, a strong work ethic, concern for the wellbeing of others, a deep appreciation of mystery novels and British humor, and a not-so-secret crush on the dashing actor Cary Elwes.

Celebrating her life and grieving her passing are her two sons, John Gallant and Michael Gallant (Kathrine Knutsen); her daughter, Ann Rutherford (Addam Chipps); and three grandchildren, Tiffany Richardson, Addison Chipps, and Kaaden Chipps. Jan is also lovingly remembered by her stepmother, Julia, sister Ann, and niece Louise.

Memorials in Jan's honor may be made to First Lutheran Church, Geneseo, or the American Cancer Society.