My Dad, James K Rutherford, preacher, evangelist, soul-winner, church planter, stepped across into heaven tonight.Dad was 82 years old and had suffered from Alzheimer's for the last few years. He was confined to a care facility for the last year, and couldn't really communicate for the last 4 or 5 months. So, while I will miss my Dad so very much, I can rejoice in the blessing it was that he has turned in that tattered tent his earthly body had become for a glorious mansion in heaven!
Dad was unquestionably one of the great preachers of his generation! He had the ability to touch people in a way so few preachers, especially today, are able to do. In fact, one of the greatest compliments my Dad ever paid me was telling me I, too, had that ability to touch people when I preach.
Dad was one of the smartest and funniest people I have ever known. He always encouraged me! I remember as a boy, him telling me more than once that I was so much smarter and had far more potential then he. I don't really believe that, but it was so encouraging!
Dad preached for more than 60 years and Dad made an eternal difference for 1000s of people, so I know many were waiting today to give him a hug and a "thank you" for it was because of Dad they were in heaven to meet him today!
I lost my father-in-law, Joe Hambrick (Papa Joe) a little more than 18 months ago. He was a great, great man, as well - very, very smart - and a really funny guy! And a great soul winner in his own right!
The world is far more rich, because of the lives of these two men! Tonight, I so very much miss them both, but know there is a special place in heaven for each of them - and I find myself looking forward to heaven just a little bit more!
Love you, Dad! Miss you, Joe!
Love In Christ Jesus!
Jim
A memorial service will be held at First Christian Church in Langley, OK - probably this Saturday afternoon.
A picture from my Dad's retirement from the ministry a few years ago. Me - Uncle Shan Rutherford (youngest of the brothers, preaches in Greenwood, Indiana) - Dad (World's Greatest Father) - Uncle Dean (middle brother, Outreach/Evangelism Pastor in Clovis, California - my Brother Joel (preaches in Langley, Oklahoma.)
Another Genuine Hero - Joe Hambrick - Sheila's Dad - He was the World's Greatest Father-in-Law!
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