Pearl Ann Rutherford

On Thursday, April 30, 2026, Pearl Ann Rutherford of Santa Fe, NM, passed away at the age of 83. She is already greatly missed. Pearl Ann was a loving mother, grandmother, friend, and volunteer who enjoyed playing bingo, eating ice cream, and sharing laughter over meals with friends at Marbella Santa Fe or with family during their many travels together. An annual trip with the “Sistas” was a highlight of many years.

She is survived by her daughter Denise and son-in-law Maurice Kuypers, grandchildren Ethan and Elena Kuypers, sisters Dorie Dickson and Hazel Draudt, and sister-in-law Amy Draudt. She was preceded in death by her parents, Irene and Paul Draudt; her brother, Paul Draudt; her husband of 48 years, Robert (Bob) Rutherford; and her son, Todd Rutherford.

Pearl Ann and Bob lived in Milton, Florida, for more than 30 years, where she worked as an accountant. In retirement, Pearl volunteered for many events at the local Senior Center, where bingo was also a favorite activity. She frequently volunteered for Road to Recovery and at a local hospice.

For nearly 20 years, Pearl Ann and Bob lived in Murray, KY, where she worked in the business office of the local hospital while Bob was employed by Fisher Price Toys. Outside of work, they kept busy with a small farm, raising two teenagers, and being involved with activities and events at Murray Lodge No. 2011, Loyal Order of Moose.

Pearl Ann and Bob grew up in upstate New York and met as children through their parents. When Pearl Ann was only 12, with pigtails and braces, she did not catch Bob’s eye. Six years later, love blossomed, and they never looked back. They married the following year and remained happily married for 48 years until Bob’s passing in 2009. Their life was full of adventures, laughter, sorrow over the loss of their son in 1984, and tremendous joy in spending time with their grandchildren and daughter.

Pearl Ann adored her toy poodle, Sweet Pea, a constant companion. They were frequently seen together at activities in Marbella Santa Fe and throughout their years in Florida. Sadly, Sweet Pea passed away in September 2025 at the age of 14. Pearl Ann had lived in Santa Fe for the past four years to be closer to her daughter.

A visitation was held at Bernardinelli Funeral Home in Santa Fe, NM, on May 26, 2026. Interment services will be held at Murray Memorial Gardens in Murray, KY, on Monday, June 15, 2026, at 10:00 AM.

Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home & Cremation Services is honored to be entrusted with local arrangements for Mrs. Rutherford. Please share your messages of condolence by signing her virtual guestbook at www.blalockcolemanfuneralhome.com.