William Earl Rutledge

William "Earl" Rutledge, a devoted father, brother, friend, and grandfather, entered into eternal rest on August 30, 2025. He was born on August 12, 1950, in Lancaster, South Carolina to the late William Rutledge and Nettie Bell Rutledge.

Earl was educated in the Lancaster County School System and was a proud graduate of Hillside High School class of 1968. After graduation he was drafted into the United States Army and honorably served his country as a Vietnam veteran. After his service, he resided in Washington, D.C., where he worked for Amtrak for eight years. Eventually, he returned home to Heath Springs, South Carolina, where he lived out his life in his beloved family home.

Earl was known for his quick wit, bold opinions, and engaging conversations. He always had a story to tell and a perspective to share. His humor, honesty, and laughter will be remembered by all who knew him.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories his lifelong companion, Bessie Edgeworth; his son, Quan (Lashawnda) Edgeworth; grandchildren, Zoie, Savannah, and Nakyi Edgeworth; siblings, Gwen (Reggie) Ross of Washington, D.C., Pumroy Rutledge of Heath Springs, SC, and Roosevelt (Dorothy) Rutledge of Heath Springs, SC; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Willie Rutledge, and a sister Caroline Boyette.

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