Franklin Andrew Rutledge

In loving memory of Franklin Andrew (Frank) Rutledge, who peacefully departed this life on October 10, 2026. Born on January 12, 1931, in the charming town of Poteet, Texas, Frank's life was a tapestry of dedication, service, and love.

Frank was the beloved son of James Calvin Rutledge and Marie Schneider. He cherished his roots in Poteet, where he grew up alongside his siblings John (Johnny), James (Jim), Robert (Bob), and Helen. Though his journey was marked by the loss of his dear wife, Betty, with whom he shared over two decades of joy, Frank's spirit remained ever buoyant and full of love for his extensive family.

A proud veteran, Frank served honorably in the U.S. Air Force from 1951 to 1956 and again from 1957 to 1961. His time in the military was a testament to his skill and dedication, earning him several awards and medals. His mechanical skills were evident early on as he worked as a mechanic before, during and after his military service. Frank's entrepreneurial spirit led him to run his own automotive shop and later a business in agricultural equipment repair where he also built irrigation systems. His passion for travel saw him traverse the U.S. and Canada as a long-haul truck driver, eventually building a small trucking enterprise before his retirement.

Frank's life was rich with interests and hobbies. He was a devoted member of the Holy Trinity Presbyterian Church, he and Betty loved dancing, playing board games, and enjoyed traveling with their dogs in their RV. His evenings were often spent with crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, and a variety of computer games. Frank's jovial nature and his ability to connect with others made him a cherished figure in his community, particularly at the retirement home where his humor and warmth were a source of joy for all.

Though Frank grieved the loss of his first child, Jennifer Rutledge Bryant in 2008, he is lovingly remembered by his children, Patsy Rutledge Bolick and her husband David, Gwendolyn Sue Norris, and Stephen Dale Wilkins and his wife Katrina. His legacy lives on in his grandchildren—Joseph, Jillian, John, David, Amanda, Joanna, Jonathan, Joshua, Joy, Kristi, Stephen, and Caitlyn—and his 26 (plus one on the way) great-grandchildren, who brought him boundless pride and happiness: Lyla, Zaylin, Amelia, Spencer, James, Rees, Bryant, Maxton, Maverick, Arden, Andrew, Elizabeth, Lillian, Noah, Carson, Lily, Adeline, Emily, Thomas, Archer, Oliver, Endy, Josephine, Ella, Eli, Evan & one on the way (Baby Rosie).

Frank's family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Brookdale North in San Marcos and Kirkwood Manor in New Braunfels for their love of him and their compassionate care during his final years.

A service to celebrate Frank's life will be held on October 24, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Hurley Funeral Home, located at 118 W. Oaklawn Rd., Pleasanton, TX 78064. The family will receive friends from 12:30 to 1:00. A funeral will follow the service at the Rutledge Cemetery on Rutledge Road in Poteet, TX.

In honor of Frank's generous spirit, donations can be made to the organization of your choice, as a reflection of what is important to you.

Franklin Andrew Rutledge will be forever missed by his family and friends, but his legacy of love, laughter, and integrity will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.