Terry Gail Rutherford

Terry Gail Rutherford, a dedicated individual who left a mark in both his professional and personal life, went to be with the Lord on Monday, February 26, 2024, at Haywood Regional Medical Center in Clyde. Terry's journey began on July 24, 1941, in Buncombe County, where he took his first steps into a life filled with accomplishments and cherished moments.

In his early years, Terry showed exceptional dedication and work ethic which led him to join Square D at the young age of 19. He poured 35 years of hard work and commitment into the company, retiring in 1996. Not one to rest after retirement, Terry ventured into a new chapter of entrepreneurship alongside his sons Brian and Kyle by becoming owner/operators of TGR Enterprises, Inc.

Terry's thirst for knowledge and growth was evident as he pursued his education. A proud graduate of Enka High School in 1959, he continued his academic journey at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville before successfully completing the tool & die program at AB Tech Community College.

Beyond the professional sphere, Terry found immense joy in various hobbies and interests that brought him closer to his loved ones. Camping trips, fishing excursions, and quality time spent on the family farm raising cattle were among the activities that brought him true happiness. His amiable nature and kind spirit earned him a special place in the hearts of all who knew him.

Terry was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Thelma Wright Rutherford, as well as his brother, Tom Rutherford. He will be dearly missed by those whose lives he touched. Left to cherish his memory, a loving and devoted wife of 61 years, Jerrie Shook Rutherford; his three sons: Dr. Gregory Rutherford, Brian Rutherford (Jill), and Kyle Rutherford, all of Candler; four grandchildren: Daniel Rutherford, Candace Paden (Jesse), Payton Fabio (Tyler), and Luke Rutherford (Micah); along with five great-grandchildren: Amelia, Iris, Lincoln, Cooper, and Farrah.

To honor Terry’s life, a Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 3, 2024 in the Canton Chapel of Wells Funeral Home with the Reverend Avery White officiating.   The family will receive friends from 12:45 p.m. until service time at the funeral home, as well as following the Memorial Service. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Snow Hill United Methodist Church Cemetery Maintenance Fund, 84 Snow Hill Church Road, Candler, NC  28715. 

The care of Mr. Rutherford has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Canton and an online memorial register is available at "Obituaries" at www.wellsfuneralhome.com.