Born in Burke County, NC on April 4, 1963, he was the son of the late Johnny Rutherford and Jackie Pearl Clemmons Rutherford.
Roger was always happy, joyful, and smiling, and he enjoyed seeing happiness in others. He loved music and dancing, and he was always well dressed in a matching outfit.
Those left to cherish his memory include his brother, Michael Joe Rutherford (close friend, Cathy Rakestraw); sisters, Loretta Rutherford Jackson (Willie F. Jackson), Lorraine Rutherford, and Carlena Rutherford; nephews, Shelton Dwayne Rutherford, Tyrone Rutherford (Krystal Rutherford), Tarus Jackson, and Stetson Leary (Mariah); nieces, Shelisha Nicole Rutherford and Katrina Lynn Rutherford; great-nephews, Khalil and Daylan Rutherford; great-nieces, Kashanna, Allana, and Kyla Rutherford; great-great-nephews, Adyan, Bentlee, Stetson Jr., Ezekiel, and Amare; and great-great-nieces, Addilynn and Alyssa.
In addition to his parents, Roger was preceded in death by a brother, Johnny Lee Rutherford, Jr.
The family will receive friends from 1 to 2 p.m., Saturday, May 24, 2025 at Sossoman Funeral Home and the funeral will be held at 2 p.m. in the Colonial Chapel of the funeral home. Burial will follow in Forest Hill Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Corpening Chapel AME Church.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Visitation
May 24, 2025
1 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center
Service
May 24, 2025
2 p.m.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center
Committal
May 24, 2025
Forest Hill Cemetery
Tribute Wall
Leave a tribute for Roger Lee Rutherford.

My thoughts and prayers are with the family. Roger always brought a smile to my face at work. He would charm his way into a soda from me many times. He was always trying to help me take things to my car and lend a hand. One of my favorite clients over the years. He never forgot the first meal I fixed for them and often wanted me to come work where he was. What a blessing it was to know you my friend rest easy now.
I just found out about Roger. I cared for him many years ago when he was in Cedarbrook Apts. He was always a great person funny and man did he have the shoes and socks he was so proud of his collection. Prayers for his loved ones. RIP Roger.

Praying for the family during this difficult time. Lean on God he will carry you through. 🙏

We offer our sincere condolences to the Rutherford family during this time of bereavement on the transition of Mr. Roger Lee Rutherford. May GOD give you all strength and peace for such a time as this. Sincerely, the Roseboro Family

It was a pleasure to take care of Roger this past year. He will be missed
I got to know Roger when I was manager at quality plus .he was a good guy .Will miss that smile .
I got to know Roger when I was manager at quality plus .he was a good guy .Will miss that smile .
It was indeed a pleasure to get to know Roger. He was quite the jokester. He love his sodas and fine dining. He could always tell me where the best places to get seafood in this part of NC were and perch was his favorite fish. Roger was the first person in western NC to call me Lois which was endearing because that's what my family in Va. called me. The world is truly a better place because Mr. Roger Lee Rutherford was here. Sincerest condolences to the family.


MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALL DURING THIS TIME. LOVE YOU ALL AND WILL CONTINUE TO BE THERE FOR YOU AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE.