Ben Morris Rutherford Sr., age 91, passed peacefully into the presence of Jesus surrounded by loved ones at home in Clinton, Tennessee on July 5, 2026.

Ben was born on March 24, 1935 to John R. and Cora Hutson Rutherford. He was a life-long resident of Anderson County, a graduate of Norris High School, and a member of Bethel Baptist Church where he served as a deacon. In August of 1956 he married the love of his life, Peggy Human. He was a devoted son, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Ben spent 40 plus years working at the Oak Ridge Y-12 facility. He loved his work and was proud to be a part of the rich Oak Ridge history. Ben was also a Mason and served in the National Guard. Raised on his father’s farm, Ben developed a passion for gardening and yard work and delighted in sharing his garden’s bounty with family and friends. Ben was also an avid sports fan and enjoyed all Tennessee sports.

He is preceded in death by his parents, John R. and Cora Hutson Rutherford, and his brothers, Ray M. Rutherford and Kyle O. Rutherford.

Ben will be greatly missed by his wife, Peggy, his sister, Christine Rutherford Wallace, his children, Myra Rutherford, Morris Rutherford, John Rutherford (Vicki), and Russell Rutherford, his grandchildren, Zack Rutherford (Jett), Joseph Long (Amanda), Elise Long Carter (Isaac), and Harrison Rutherford, his great- grandchildren, Cayden, Jacob, Myra Jo, Caleb, and Mary Lou.

The family would like to thank the employees of Quality Private Duty Care and Quality Hospice Care for their genuine and compassionate care shown over the past several years.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that you make a donation to Second Harvest Food Bank, 136 Harvest Ln, Maryville, TN 37801, 865-521-0000 or a faith-based charity of your choice.

Services are as follows: 

Visitation: Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at Bethel Baptist Church from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM in Clinton, Tennessee

Funeral Service: To follow visitation at Bethel Baptist Church 

Interment: Family and friends will meet Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Norris Memorial Gardens in Norris at 10:00 AM