Martha N. Rutherford

Martha N. Rutherford, born on December 14, 1939, in Logan County, Ohio, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2025. She was a beloved figure whose contributions to both her family and community will forever be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Martha's early years were marked by her vibrant spirit and determination. Growing up on her family's farm, she cultivated a deep appreciation for nature that later blossomed into her passions for gardening and baking. Her youth was also filled with the joys of companionship; she shared her childhood with a horse named Pepper, which she rode freely on roads and trails. An active participant in her high school community, Martha excelled academically and artistically, serving as a cheerleader and laying out the yearbook as its editor. Additionally, she was a proud member of the Future Teachers of America and demonstrated her talents in music through the marching band, where she learned to play the glockenspiel.

After graduating high school, Martha attended Kent State University, where she began to explore her professional career. She started as a floral designer in Bellefontaine, Ohio, eventually landing a position at Wickline's in Xenia. Her creativity extended beyond floral arrangements, as she also became a skilled seamstress, touching many lives with her artistic abilities.

Martha's legacy is one of love, kindness, and unwavering support for her family and friends. She was a devoted mother to her daughters, Elizabeth (Charlie) Estep, Jennifer (Raoul) Rutherford, and Caroline (Todd) Baker, imparting her skills in cooking and sewing to them. Her lessons continued with her beloved grandchildren, Blaire Martindale, Dain Martindale, Olivia Baker, and Audrey Baker, and also extended to her many nieces and nephews, whom she loved dearly. Her grandchildren will always cherish the times spent around the bonfire making s'mores and playing games, as well as the cherished moments when she shared her love for cooking and her passion for gardening with them.

A kind woman who held a deep belief in God, Martha was admired for her loyalty and her caring nature. She was a member of Springboro First United Methodist Church. She was a beloved sister to Patsy (Paul) O'Neill and Sally Robinson, and a dear friend to many, including close friends Joe Fugate and his family; Debbie Allen and her family, whom she treasured throughout her life.

Martha was preceded in death by her parents, Nelle Agnes Young and Milo Harvey Young, and her sisters Colleen Schroeder and Polly Hiltibran and her husband Bill, brother-in-law Don Robinson, along with Larry D. Rutherford, who was formerly married to Martha, and her long time best friend Shirley Fugate. Though she has departed from this world, the impact of her life reverberates through the hearts of her family and friends.

As we remember Martha, we celebrate a woman whose creativity, compassion, and generosity of spirit has left an indelible mark on all who knew her. The world was undoubtedly a better place with Martha in it, and her memory will be cherished forever.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 12 PM on August 16, 2025, at Springboro First United Methodist Church. Her family will greet family and friends prior to service at 11 AM.