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TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SENATE UPON THE PASSING OF JAMES WILDON RUTLAND OF LEXINGTON AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate were deeply saddened to learn of the death of James Wildon Rutland of Lexington on April 15, 2010; and
Whereas, known affectionately as "Mr. Red" to friends, James Wildon Rutland was born on April 19, 1925, the second of seven children, to the late Clarence Alvin Rutland and Lessie Williamson Rutland of Lexington County; and
Whereas, after graduating from Swansea High School and becoming manager of an Edens Food Store at the age of sixteen, young James joined the Navy and served during World War II; and
Whereas, with his beloved wife, Marah Black Rutland, he owned and operated the Red Star Grocery in Columbia's Ward One for thirty-seven years. For many of his customers, he functioned as not only grocer but also advisor, social-services director, banker, tax preparer, interpreter of important papers, and wedding conductor; and
Whereas, James Rutland was a member of Brookland United Methodist Church in West Columbia for more than fifty years. Known in later years for his gifts of homemade sweet potato pies, pecan pies and muffins, and his organic tomatoes grown in bales of hay, he worked long hours at his "semiretirement" position as receiver at 14 Carrot Whole Foods in Lexington; and
Whereas, Mr. Red served as counselor and confidant for three generations of his friends and relatives. A self-professed workaholic, he was never too busy to lend an ear, a hand, or a joke. His understanding of right living was firm, and his acceptance of others made him every day a contributor to the Kingdom of God; and
Whereas, predeceased by his wife, he leaves to cherish his memory daughters Linda Mote and Dr. Marah Rutland; two grandchildren; and a host of other family members and friends. He will be greatly missed. Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the Senate:
That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, express their profound sorrow upon the passing of James Wildon Rutland of Lexington and extend the deepest sympathy to his family and many friends.
Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be provided to Linda Mote for the family.
This web page was last updated on June 3, 2010 at 10:33 AM