Nelson Dillard Rutledge

Nelson Dillard Rutledge, longtime Merritt Island resident, peacefully passed away with his wife of 68 years by his side on February 10, 2022. Nelson was born in Rossville, Georgia on August 31, 1931, grew up in Cincinnati and graduated from the University of Cincinnati in 1954. For the rest of his life, Nelson seemed to meet someone from Cincinnati everywhere he went.

Nelson was the model for a Christlike husband, father, mentor, and friend. He was a true gentleman whose amiable nature made him a favorite of many. He will particularly be remembered for his sense of humor, easygoing nature, and a genuine interest in others. If you knew him, he was your friend. He is a true legacy who will continue to live on in the lives of his family.

Over the course of his life he served in the U.S. Army, worked for General Electric, was on staff at First Baptist Church Merritt Island, was Assistant Principal at Cocoa Beach High School, and retired as Director of Transportation and Warehousing for the Brevard County School system.

Nelson is survived by his wife Florence, his three children, Jay Rutledge (Pam 1956-2021), Mona Becker (Don), and John Rutledge (Ruby); his eight grandchildren, Ryan Reeves (Max), Matt Rutledge (Nicole), Katie Owens (Jacob), Jackie Johnson (Robby), Jay Becker (Rachel), Julie Becker, Tyler Rutledge (Kiri), Nelson Rutledge (Tori), and his 14 great-grandchildren; Maggie, Evie, and Max Reeves, Marlowe, Adleigh, Hensley, and Decklyn Rutledge, Luke, Lani, and Finley Owens, Sadie and Tripp Johnson, Layna and Riggen Becker.

A celebration of life service will take place at 11:00am on Tuesday, February 15th, in the chapel at First Baptist Church Merritt Island (140 Magnolia Ave). In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of St. Francis Foundation at 1250-B Grumman Place, Titusville, FL 32780 or Florida Baptist Children’s Home at 1015 Sikes Blvd, Lakeland, FL 33815.