Rodney L. Rutledge, 76 of Wilmington passed away Wednesday, April 7, 2021 at VITAS Hospice in Cincinnati.  He was born October 24, 1944 in Wilmington, Ohio, son of the late Robert and Myrtle Rutledge.

Mr. Rutledge had worked for Clinton Asphalt & Paving and Ellis Fencing.  He also trained harness racing horses.  He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Wilmington and the U.S. Trotting Association.

He is survived by his wife, Gloria Ward Fulkerson, whom he married May 5, 2003; two daughters, Tami Rutledge and Tonya Meeks; stepchildren, Eric Fulkerson, Lori (Tim) Blair, and Judy (Chris) Neville; and many grandchildren.  In addition to his parents, a son, Duane Caplinger, and a sister, Esther Crownover, are preceded in death.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM – 12:00 Noon, Monday, April 12, 2021 at Smith Funeral Home, 327 N. South Street, Wilmington, Ohio.  A funeral service with Pastor Josh Dixon officiating will begin at 12:00 Noon, Monday.  Burial will be in Springfield Friends Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Rodney’s memory may be made to VITAS Hospice, 255 E 5th St, Ste 1200, Cincinnati, OH 45202.