Terry M. Rutledge

Born in Albany, New York on August 29,1945 to Bill and Jean Rutledge. The day he was born, his father serving in WW2 received two telegrams, “The war is over!” and “Your son Terry has been born!”

Terry was a very active student while attending Guilderland High School. He was loved by his peers sitting as Vice President of his class, voted Class Clown, and named Captain of his football team.

After high school, he attended Hudson Valley Junior College before joining the United States Army, where he was stationed in Berlin, Germany. He then returned to Albany and received his bachelor's degree from Siena College in finance.

On January 23, 1971, he married the love of his life, Gail Brixius from Malone, New York. They were married for 52 years and had three daughters Lisa, Kelly and Katie.

Terry continued to serve his country even after his time in the Army, serving as a controller for the US Department of Veterans Affairs(VA) hospital system for over 30 years. This provided Terry and his family the opportunity to relocate to different places in the US. Terry and family were blessed to call: Canandaigua, New York, Cleveland, Ohio; Temple, Texas; and finally, Lexington Kentucky, “Home.” Terry really enjoyed the experiences, opportunities, and wonderful people who he easily befriended, as he and his family experienced life in different parts of the country. Over the years, Terry, Gail, and their girls would travel by car on many enjoyable family camping trips throughout the United States.

Terry was passionate about many things in his life including music, telling stories, watching sports, and meeting new people. He loved to make anyone in his company smile and never missed an opportunity to make a witty comment or joke.

After retiring to Florida, his children followed, as did families of their own. Terry leaves behind his wife Gail, Daughters Lisa (Patrick) Canning, Kelly (Marc) Lean and Katie (Chris) Guerra, as well as grandchildren: Ashley and Conor Canning, Brenna and Logan Lean, and Zoey and Michael Guerra. Terry is also survived by one brother, William Rutledge and several nieces and nephews.

Terry was surrounded by all his loved ones when he passed. He was full of gratitude and love for his family and the wonderful life he lived. His legacy to all is, “Enjoy the small things in life, have fun and laugh a lot!”

Celebration of life to be announced.