Rebecca Jean Rutherford, affectionately known as Becky, 44, of Hamlet, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025 at her home, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born Oct. 5, 1980 in Rockingham, daughter of James Rutherford and the late Sandra Smith Rutherford.
Becky was sunshine on a cloudy day, a light in every room she entered and a friend to everyone she met. She was the epitome of what it means to “love like Jesus,” pouring out compassion, grace and kindness to all who crossed her path. Whether two-legged or four, Becky loved all creatures fiercely. Her heart was big enough to hold space for every person and every animal she encountered.
As the youngest in her family, Becky held a special place in everyone's heart, especially her mom and dad…Becky was the undeniable favorite. She shared an unbreakable bond with her brother and sister; the three of them together were unstoppable. Their love for one another was deep, unconditional, and filled with laughter and strength.
Becky never met a stranger. Her sharp memory, infectious smile, and warm presence made people feel seen, known and loved. Becky had more “buddies” and “cuzins” than we could count.
Her unwavering, passionate, and deep faith was the cornerstone of her life. A devoted member of Hamlet Church of God of Prophecy, she was actively involved and deeply committed to its mission. Her love for children and ministry led her to single-handedly fund the church’s children’s ministry, a reflection of her heart for service and belief in building strong spiritual foundations for the next generation.
Becky lived her life with purpose, faith, and fierce love. Her legacy is one of light, love, and a faith that moved mountains.
Becky was preceded in death by her mother, Sandra Smith Rutherford; paternal grandparents, Hugh Rutherford and Gladys Kinkade; and maternal grandparents, Archie and Beatrice Smith.
Left to cherish her memories are her father, James Rutherford of the home; brother, Robert Rutherford, and wife Darlene, of Hamlet; sister, April Medlock, and husband Mark, of Sanford; other sister, Christy Dixon, and husband Darin, of Hamlet; nieces and nephews, Justin Rutherford, and wife Brittany, Jennie Meece, and husband Alan, Taylor Lanier, and husband Casey, and Caleb Medlock; great-nieces and great-nephews, Rose Meece, Rosaleigh Rutherford, Rowan Rutherford, Maverick Meece and Mallie Bea Meece; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family that loved her dearly.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025 from 5-8 p.m. at the Hamlet Church of God of Prophecy, 615 Cheraw Road, Hamlet.
The funeral service to celebrate Becky’s life will be Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025 at 3 p.m. at the Hamlet Church of God of Prophecy with Bishop Steve Crews officiating. Interment, alongside her mother, will follow in the church cemetery.
At other times, the family will receive friends at the family home on Freeman Mill Road, Hamlet.
Memorials may be made to: Hamlet COGOP Children’s Ministry, 615 Cheraw Road, Hamlet, NC 28345; or Richmond County Hospice, 1119 N. U.S. Highway 1, Rockingham, NC 28379.
Harrington Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the family. Online condolences may be made at harringtonfuneralhome.com.
