Frances Beth Rutledge

  Frances Beth Rutledge, age 94, peacefully departed this life on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Born on August 25, 1931, in Millsap, Texas, she was the cherished daughter of Robert Massie and Fannie (Lancaster) Massie Jones. Robert Massie passed away when Frances and her twin brother were infants, and a large extended family stepped up to help with raising the young children.

  Frances graduated from Millsap High School in 1949 and married Jesse Leon (J.L.) Rutledge on August 19, 1950. Together, they created a beautiful family, welcoming three children. A devoted homemaker, Frances treasured her time spent with family and friends formed at Beulah Baptist Church and later at Soda Springs Baptist Church.

  In her retirement, Frances found joy in reading and observing the world around her, often fussing with the chickens and sharing special treats with the dogs, even though she claimed not to be fond of them. She especially loved spending time with her grandkids and great-grandkids, not to mention her weekly Saturday morning chats with her best friend Beth when she was still able.

  Frances was preceded in death by her beloved husband, J.L. Rutledge. She is also reunited with her parents, Fannie and Robert Massie; her siblings, Grace, Orville, and Fred; as well as numerous half-siblings.

  She is lovingly remembered by her son, Ronnie Rutledge; daughter, Dana Taylor and husband, Jim; son, Larry Rutledge; grandchildren, Brian Keith Rutledge and wife, Jennifer, Kimberlie "Kim" Lynn Rutledge, Brenda Gail (Rutledge) Griffin and husband, James, and Kristen Elizabeth (Taylor) Neudorff and husband, Andre; and great-grandchildren, Rhyder Hagen Rutledge, Chandler Griffin, Charity Griffin, Jesse Moore, and Harley Moore.

  A time of visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Galbreaith Pickard Funeral Chapel, located at 913 North Elm Street, Weatherford, Texas 76086.

  A graveside service to honor Frances will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Newberry Cemetery, near Cool, Texas, where she will be laid to rest.

  The family expresses sincere appreciation and thanks to the staff at both Beyond Faith Hospice and Hilltop Park Rehabilitation and Care Center for their excellent care. There are too many names to list without accidentally omitting someone, but please know you have a special place in our hearts.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Galbreaith Pickard Funeral Chapel. https://www.galbreaithpickard.com/