James "Jim" Rutland

Mr. James “Jim” Rutland, age 84, went home to be with Jesus on Thursday, June 22, 2023, surrounded by his loving family.

Jim was born and raised in Collins, MS, graduating from Collins High School. He joined the Marine Corp, serving 4 years, then served in the Army National Guard for several years as an officer.

Jim and Charlene moved to St. Martin in 1969, where he spent his career as a home builder along the MS Gulf Coast.

Jim was a devoted member of First Baptist Church in Ocean Springs, where he served faithfully in many areas. He loved his church and his church family and he will be missed dearly.

Jim loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and he was able to enjoy many trips to the Great Smoky Mountains.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 56 years, Charlene Thaxton Rutland; his parents, Bill and Ruby Rutland; his sister, Betty Lou Groebe; and his brother, Don Winston Rutland.

Jim’s survivors include his daughter, Dana (Roy) Gill; his son, Greg (Cindy) Rutland; and his grandchildren, Brandon and Anna Gill. He is also survived by his sisters, Billie Sue Speight and Shelby (Butch) Williamson; his brother, Larry (Judy) Rutland; and a host of nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to extend a special thanks to Hospice Vital Caring Group for their loving care, especially his nurse, Keith.

In lieu of flowers the family prefers donations be made in Jim’s memory to First Baptist Church of Ocean Springs.

Funeral Services will be held at First Baptist Church of Ocean Springs on Monday, June 26, 2023 at 11:00 am. Friends may visit from 10:00 am until service time. A graveside service will follow at Willow Grove Cemetery, 994 Willow Grove Church Road, Seminary, MS 39479 at 3:00 pm.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of James “Jim” Rutland.