Karen Rutledge

Karen Suzanne Rutledge, 76, daughter of Florence A. Robins, granddaughter of Rev. Guy and Ethel Mae Adams Hawley passed away Thursday, January 19, 2012. Predeceased were the above and grandson, Colton Adams MacKay. Survivors include her sister and brother-in-law, Judith and Harold Ray Sherrill of Hobbs, New Mexico. She was blessed with three children and their dear families: son, Brian and Kelley MacKay, grandchildren, Wesley and Shelbey MacKay of Anna, Texas; daughter, Cheryl MacKay, grandchildren, Jonathan Bunn, Devan and Tara Moses of Arkadelphia, Arkansas; son, Stacy and Jennifer Rutledge, grandchildren Brandon “Boo” Rutledge of Hickory, North Carolina, Eric and Johnna Rutledge, Bradly and BreeAnn Bates, and two great-grandchildren, Nonah & Naomi all of Hot Springs. Nieces and nephews: Janeen and Lacy Sheetz, Kyra and Kayli of Rowlett, Texas; Robin and Kristi Sherrill, Jeremy and Justin of Highland Ranch, Colorado. Cousins: Gerald Hawley and Rosemary Hawley of Port Huron, Michigan. She also leaves behind, to laugh and cry, many others. Her friends, some of whom she considered as close as sisters and brothers, her “24/7 friends.” Additionally, her beloved 2nd family at Genesis Cancer Center – Dr. Tim Webb and his empathetic staff and Dr. David Pruitt and staff. Karen was born in Detroit, Michigan March 28, 1935. She attended high school and x–ray training in Aberdeen, South Dakota. She raised her children and worked in Hot Springs. She was a registered x–ray technician for 41 years and worked for the State at the Hot Springs Rehabilitation Center for 28 years. She lived a long and lucky life, surviving years and accomplishing most of her “bucket list.” One good thing about living so long is “you get to write your own obituary.” She believed and trusted in God. With her faith and prayers from so many sources, she overcame many obstacles to survive 20 years with cancer. Special thanks to everyone at St. Joseph’s Hospital who cared for her tirelessly. The body will be cremated. A memorial service will be held Monday at 2:00 P.M. at the Hot Springs Funeral Home with Pastor Charlie Tuttle officiating. In lieu of flowers, charitable donations may be made to “Our Promise” in care of Genesis Cancer Center Foundation.