On Saturday, August 30, 2025, Mary Etta Hyde Rutledge, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family into the arms of her Heavenly Father. Born on August 19, 1938, in Corona, Alabama, to Burrell Louis Hyde and Cora Jones Hyde, Mary Etta lived a life defined by fierce strength, relentless hard work, and boundless love for her family. At the age of 87, she left an enduring legacy that will forever shine in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
Mary Etta was the heart and soul of her family, raising six children—with unwavering dedication. Her proudest accomplishment was her children, pouring her love and energy into giving them a better life. She was a great mother, making Christmas magical for her children with a simple fresh cut cedar tree from the family farm. She completed the Christmas magic with hand-me-down gifts, colorful tree lights, and silver icicles. Those colorful lights on the tree still glow in each of our memories. She was a master at keeping the house tidy with simple, heartfelt touches, Mary Etta’s sense of style and care made every moment special. We are all grateful for a mama who provided so much love.
Her tireless work ethic was most evident on the family dairy farm, where her all-encompassing roles included those of a manager, veterinarian, plumber, electrician, and bookkeeper— she did it all. No task was too big or too hard for her determined spirit. Whether milking cows in the quiet of the morning with her children, sharing coffee and laughter, or wearing her two handmade skirts to ensure her children had more, Mary Etta’s sacrifices shaped her family’s values and inspired them to be better humans. Her many jobs also included working at South Central Bell and Lureen B Wallace Development Center, but it was her role as a homemaker and farm matriarch that she’ll be best remembered for.
Mary Etta’s life was a tapestry of love, hard work, and resilience. Her children will always remember the warmth of her laughter, wisdom, selfless love, and the family she created. She leaves behind a family forever grateful for her sacrifices and the example she set.
Mary Etta’s love extended to her 10 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy. Her legacy lives on in them, a testament to the deep adoration her family held for her. Even as she faced hardships throughout her life, her strength and love remained steadfast, though the burdens she carried were evident to those who loved her. Her family stood by her, cherishing every moment, from visits to quiet memories of her spirit.
Thank you, Mama, for your love, your memories, and the home you built for us all. You’ll be loved and cherished always.
Mary Etta was predeceased by her parents, Burrell Louis Hyde and Cora Jones Hyde Anderson; her mother-in-law and father-in-law, John James and Lula Plunkett Rutledge; her son, Tim Rutledge; her grandchildren, Cassandra Hunter and April Fouse; and her siblings, Billie Hyde, Dorothy Benton, Burline Bowman, Bobbie Butler, Louis Hyde, and William L “Junior” Utley. She is survived by her five children and their spouses; Karen (Mike) Hunter, Sherell (Al) Dolney, Glenna (Hal) Ledbetter, Leanne (Jeffrey) Hunter, and Susan (Ted) Fitzgibbon; daughter-in-law, Helen Rutledge; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; and one sister, Sue Utley Gann.
A private family gathering will be held to celebrate her life.
