Essie Lorene Rutledge

  Essie Lorene Rutledge, 87, of Weatherford, passed away Thursday, July 24, 2008, in a local nursing facility. Born August 29, 1920, in Parker County, where she was a resident all of her life. Lorene was a member of Calvary Baptist Church. Granny spent her life as a devoted wife, mother, granny, sister and friend. She shared her love through her special gifts of cooking, gardening and faith with everyone who came through the door. Coconut pie, banana pudding, roast and gravy and fried squash were just a few of her specialties. Granny left this earth surrounded by her family. She was loved unconditionally and will be missed by all. 

  Lorene was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Thomas, on February 16, 1959 and Chester Rutledge on June 19, 1998; and her parents, three brothers and two sisters.   

  She is survived by her children, Freddie Thomas and wife, Barbara, Sherry Hall, Tricia Cardenas and husband, George, Bobby Thomas and Craig Rutledge, all of Weatherford; 11 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; and a sister, Charlene Lamb of Bridgeport. 

  Funeral service: 10:00 a.m., Saturday, July 26, 2008, in the Galbreaith Pickard Funeral Chapel, with Bro. Cris Powell officiating. Interment: Holders Cemetery. Visitation: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, at the funeral home.