Robert Spencer Rutherford

Robert Spencer Rutherford, 88, passed away Sunday, December 16, 2012, in Heber Springs, Arkansas. He was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Ina Belle Nicholas Rutherford and his parents, James Luin and Elizabeth (Betty) Rutherford of Batesville, Arkansas. He is survived by his daughter, Robin Roach (husband Jeff and granddaughter Anna) of Memphis, Tennessee and his son, Robert Rutherford (wife Tracy and granddaughters Taylor and Jessica) of Cooper City, Florida along with his brother James Rutherford of Batesville, Arkansas. He graduated from Arkansas College (Lyon College) located in Batesville in 1949 after serving in the armed forces during World War II. A talented collegiate basketball player, his skill led to a short professional basketball career with the now defunct Chicago Stags. He was inducted into the Arkansas College Sports Hall of Fame. He rejoined the armed services and served over twenty years as a pilot in the United States Air Force. He retired from the USAF in 1969 after having served during three wars (World War II, Korea, and Vietnam). After retiring from the USAF he became the Director of Security for Memphis State University (The University of Memphis). After retiring from this second career he and his wife moved to Eden Isle in Heber Springs. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, December 19, 2012, at Oaklawn Cemetery in Batesville under the direction of Roller-Crouch Funeral Home of Batesville. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church, 1313 W. Pine Street, Heber Springs, Ark. 72543 or the Cleburne County Library Building Fund, 1010 Searcy Street, Heber Springs, Ark. 72543. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.