Felix "Buddy" Rutland Jr.

Felix (Buddy) Rutland, Jr., passed away peacefully at his home on December 25, 2024, at the graceful age of 86. He was born March 7, 1938 to Felix L. and Alice Lucille Fox Rutland who have both preceded him in death. Buddy graduated from Paxon High School where he was a 1955, 1956 & 1957 High School All Star Track athlete, holding numerous state and national track championship records. These outstanding achievements earned him a full scholarship to Duke University. It was at Paxon High School where he met, fell in love with, and married the love of his life - Marian Elizabeth Darsey Rutland. They celebrated 48 beautiful years of marriage together prior to her death in 2005.

Buddy proudly served in the U.S. Navy after being drafted and honorably discharged, and then worked for Jax NAS NADEP as an aircraft painter. Buddy went on to operate Hart Haven Body Shop in Marietta alongside his father, and was also the founder and owner of Rutland's Paint and Body Shop, which his sons and son-in-law operated for over 30 years. Buddy was always happy to tell you, "If You Bust Your Butt, Call Rut!"  Additionally, Buddy was a loyal and dedicated Volunteer Fireman for many years with the Marietta Fire Department; Lil' League baseball coach; and a Girl Scout's Troop Dad.

Buddy was an avid NASCAR fan who got to meet and shake hands with Dale Earnhardt, and was a loyal Jacksonville Jaguars fan. "Mr. Rutland" as he was known to others, never met a stranger, always asked if you wanted to dance, and was ready to tell you his life story on any occasion. He will forever be missed and loved by his family, and by all who knew him. Rest in Peace "Dad" and "Paw".

Buddy is survived by his 4 children, Cindy (Buddy) Smolder, Billy (Tina) Rutland, Joey (Melody, deceased) Rutland, and Debby Moore. He is also survived by his 6 grandchildren, Michael Hatcher, Angie (John) Williams, Ashley Moore, Stephen Rutland, Raney (Ben) Thomas, and Brittany (Austin) Azari; 7 great grandchildren, Marcus and Austin Hatcher, Valerie Williams, Jackson Maryon, Tucker and Ava Thomas, and Olivia Azari; his brother-in-law, Dave Darsey; many nieces and nephews; and his loyal little companions, his two dogs Baby and Martha, who shared every meal with him and always expected their nightly Twinkie treats.

Funeral arrangements have been graciously entrusted to Warren Family Funeral Home of Baldwin.