Jack Sterling Rutherford

Jack Sterling Rutherford, a cherished husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home on May 31, 2026, after a valiant battle with prostate cancer. Born on November 30, 1957, in Bristol, Virginia, Jack's life was a tapestry woven with dedication, love, and an unwavering spirit that will be remembered by all who had the privilege to know him. Jack was the beloved son of Jack and Elizabeth Rutherford, who predeceased him. He is survived by his devoted wife, Scottie Elaine Rutherford, with whom he shared almost 19 beautiful years of marriage. Together, they built a life filled with love and mutual respect, facing life's challenges hand in hand. Jack is also survived by his son, Daniel Scott Rutherford, and his wife, Sarah, who brought immense joy and pride to his days. His siblings, sister Karen Finley (Tom) and brother Tim Rutherford, along with several nieces and cousins, will forever cherish his memory. A proud alumnus of John Battle High School, Jack graduated in 1976. He embarked on a remarkable career as a control systems analyst at Eastman Chemical Company, where he dedicated 42 years of his life. His commitment to his work was a testament to his diligent nature and his unyielding drive to excel. Jack's life was enriched by his passions and hobbies, which reflected his zest for life and curiosity about the world. He was an avid photographer, capturing the beauty in everyday moments and the extraordinary. His love for cycling and hiking took him on many adventures, exploring the great outdoors and embracing the serenity and challenges it offered. Jack also found joy in farming, a pursuit that connected him to nature and nurtured his soul. A service to celebrate Jack's life will be held at Trinity Memorial Centers Funeral Home, located at 1221 Stewball Circle, Kingsport, TN. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the care team at Ballad Palliative and Ballad Hospice for the exceptional care and compassion shown to Jack and his family during his final days. Though Jack did not have grandchildren, the legacy he leaves behind is vast, woven into the hearts of those he touched. His warmth, kindness, and resilience will continue to inspire those who loved him. Jack Sterling Rutherford will be dearly missed, but his spirit will live on in the cherished memories of his family and friends. Those who knew Jack will remember him as a man of integrity and grace, whose life was a testament to the power of love and the strength of the human spirit.