LaFred Rutledge

Mr. La Fred Rutledge was born on July 5, 1947, to Booker T. Washington Rutledge and Rosa Lee Ackins. He was one of twelve children—a beautifully balanced family of six boys and six girls: Robert, Nafi, Booker, Levi, La Fred, Timothy, Nellie, Margaret, Mattie, Doris, Peggy, and Shirley. Raised with love, laughter, and the strength of traditional values, La Fred grew up learning the importance of faith, family, and freedom. From humble beginnings, his journey was destined to be expansive. The rhythm of his childhood, rooted in family unity and hard work, was the melody that guided the symphony of his life.A free spirit in his youth, La Fred lived in quite a few U.S cities, including Kansas City, Chicago, and Indianapolis. It was there he met and married Francis, and together they welcomed two daughters, Angelia and Angeanette Rutledge. With courage and a desire for greater opportunity, La Fred relocated to New York City in 1972, where destiny awaited him in the form of Carolyn Thompson. Their union would blossom into a beautiful, blended family: Sharon, Angelia, Delores, Angeanette, and Robert, with their daughter LaTasha joining the family in 1979.On March 8, 1986, under the counsel of the late Reverend Blanding in Coney Island, New York, La Fred and Carolyn sealed their bond in holy matrimony—a love that would span over five decades. Through life’s trials and triumphs, La Fred remained a devoted husband, father, and provider. He wore many hats, but “Daddy” and “Granddaddy” were worn with the most pride. He was a hardworking man of perseverance, humility, and lots of life—a steady anchor to those who loved him.Professionally, Mr. Rutledge made his mark in the trucking industry. For 15 years, he served proudly as a truck driver for New England Motor Freight Company in New York, always punctual and respected by his peers. Later, here located to Stockbridge, Georgia, and concluded his 30-year career with Stock Builders Inc. There, he continued his streak of dependability, never missing a day of work and consistently recognized for perfect attendance. La Fred believed that providing for one’s family was a sacred duty. Through cold winters and hot southern summers, he rolled up his sleeves and made sure his loved ones never went without.In 1995, La Fred accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal Savior under the spiritual mentorship of Overseer Arnold Gover. This transformation ushered in the most profound chapter of his life—his walk with Christ. He served faithfully in the Prison Ministry, offering support to Pastor Glover through odd jobs and transportation. Asa member of Morning Dew Baptist Church in Brooklyn, La Fred was a beloved usher. In his later years, he continued his faithful service at Voices of Faith Ministries in Stone Mountain, Georgia, where he welcomed worshippers with warmth and grace as an usher. Mr. Rutledge was a quiet servant of the Lord, but his faith was loud and unwavering. A true testament that God makes all things new: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” — 2 Corinthians 5:17 Mr. Rutledge was a simple man with two great joys—wrestling and his beloved scratch-off game tickets. These small pleasures brought big smiles. He loved to laugh at his favorite sitcoms, Sanford & Son and The Jeffersons, often joking that he would be rich one day like George Jefferson and he would gift it all to his beloved wife, Carolyn Rutledge. He was a sharp dresser—always polished, always poised, always proud. He dressed for the Lord in his Sunday best, commanding attention with his handsomely tailored suits and radiant smile. Known for his charm, La Fred was the epitome of gentlemanly grace. Though not the best dancer, he was the biggest fan of the funk band BT Express, especially because his brother-in-law, Richard Thompson, was the lead singer. Their bond was deep and full of fond memories. His love for his brothers was equally enduring—they spoke often and held each other up, no matter the distance. A man who loved the outdoors, Mr. Rutledge, walked everywhere, connecting with the communities he lived in. His heart and home were always open to grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, offering love, wisdom, and a place to belongWhen La Fred met Carolyn, his heart found its true home. Their love story was one for the ages—rare, raw, and real. They walked through every season of life together, side by side. Their love wasn’t just romantic, it was divine. They prayed together, served together, and stood the test of time through challenges and adversity-TOGETHER. This was a 52-year journey of faith, friendship, and forever love. Their bond was their legacy—visible in their children and their children’s children. They were each other’s soulmates, partners, and purpose. And now, reunited in eternity, they walk hand in hand once more. Love, pure and golden, is their greatest inheritance to us all. Mr. La Fred Rutledge leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and faith. He is survived by his daughters Angelia Howard (Atlanta, GA), Anjeanette Rutledge (Lithonia, GA) and LaTasha Rutledge (Canton, GA); (maternal) 13 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren, (paternal) 4 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren, a host of beloved siblings, nieces, nephews, and cherished friends, his brothers Timothy Rutledge, Booker T. Rutledge, and sisters Peggy Rutledge He has fought the good fight, he has finished the race, he has kept the faith. Rest well, Mr. Rutledge. Your work here is done.