Emma Modell Rutherford

Emma Joplin was born September 28, 1923 in Noodle, Texas and passed into the Lord's presence on March 6, 2023 in Durango, Colorado at the age of 99. She married Lee Roy Rutherford on April 12, 1947 and together they raised three children. They lived in Graham, Texas until moving to Clearwater, Kansas in the early 1950s, and then to Durango in 1972.

She enjoyed cooking, sewing, playing the piano, traveling, watching baseball, and being with her family at every opportunity.
Above all, Emma loved and served her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ all of her life. She quietly lived her faith and taught by example. She was meek and patient with everyone, always hospitable, and loving. She was known as Mammy to family and friends alike.

She is survived by two daughters, Jo (Andy) Mason of Farmington, NM and Jill (Clint) Brooks of Durango, CO; six grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; one sister.

Emma is preceded in death by her husband Lee Roy Rutherford in 1996; son, Tom Rutherford in 2016; great-granddaughter Masyn Dick in 2016; three sisters; and four brothers.

Per Emma's request, a private graveside service for family only will be held.