Robert "Bob" Andrew Rutherford

Robert "Bob" Andrew Rutherford passed away peacefully on January 14, 2026, at the age of 90. Born on February 3, 1935, in Dexter, Oregon to John and Marian Rutherford. Bob enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1954 and was stationed at England Air Force Base in Alexandria, Louisiana. It was during this time he met and married the love of his life, Bonnie. Also, during this time, he felt the call of ministry on his heart and became pastor of Midway Assembly of God in Forest Hill, Louisiana in 1958. In 1973 Bob moved his family to DeRidder, Louisiana and became pastor of First Assembly of God. Continuing to follow the call of ministry, Bob was the founding pastor of Abundant Life Church in DeRidder in 1979 and continued as pastor there until his retirement at the age of 83.

Throughout his life, and especially in his ministry, he was a man who would tackle any challenge with a heart full of compassion. His passion for ministry was evident in all the ways he was a shepherd to his church and community. His absence will be profoundly felt, yet his spirit will continue to inspire those he touched.

Robert is survived by his loving wife of 70 years Bonnie Sparks Rutherford, their children: Tamie Miller of St. Francisville LA, Brent Rutherford and Monda of DeRidder, LA, and Vonda Vandagriff and Dale of DeRidder, LA; Seven grandchildren: Danielle McCaig, Donnie Miller Jr., Kayren Beard, Kelli Rutherford, Charlie Miller, Ethan Vandagriff, and Aaron Vandagriff; Eight great-grandchildren: Colt McCaig, Brayden Jett, Braylee Jett, Cooper McCaig, Allynder Beard, Jameson Beard, Lily Miller, and Wesley Miller.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services for Robert Rutherford will be held on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at 2:00pm in the chapel of Myers Colonial Funeral Home located in Deridder, Louisiana. The burial will follow in Beauregard Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 5:00pm until 8:00pm at Myers Colonial Funeral Home. Visitation will continue on Sunday, from 1:00pm until the service at 2:00pm.