Ivan Benson Rutherford

Ivan Benson Rutherford, 65, of Knoxville, Tennessee died on October 4, 2018 after a courageous battle with cancer. Ivan was born in Kingsport, Tennessee on March 18, 1953 to Charles and Marjorie (Reagan) Rutherford of Knoxville, Tennessee. He graduated from West Rome High School in Rome, Georgia in 1971 and attended Carson-Newman University. He had a passion for woodworking and enjoyed hiking and the outdoors. He loved the Smoky Mountains and derived much pleasure in sharing that passion with his four children and eight grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his loving parents Charles and Marjorie (Reagan) Rutherford and grandparents. He is survived by his wife, best friend, soul-mate and love of his life Karen Roe Rutherford. He also leaves behind four children: Jody (Royal) Dupuis of Hobe Sound, Florida, Nicholas (Jennifer) Rutherford of Oakland Park, Florida, Jennifer (Erik) Jackson of Knoxville, Tennessee and Jessica (Jef Reisig) Rutherford of Denver, Colorado. His four loving granddaughters (Holly, Riley, Daphne and Reese) and four loving grandsons (Drew, Lincoln, Harrison and Grant) will miss their “Grampa” dearly. Ivan is also survived by one truly devoted sister, Beth (Richard) Jernigan of Gray, Georgia. He leaves behind his Aunt Ruby Jennings and Uncle Andrew “Andy” Rutherford, also two nephews and many cousins. Finally, let us not forget his side-kick, Tiny, who will also miss him terribly. Special thanks to the amazing staff of UT Hospice of Knoxville. Ivan’s family will be holding a private celebration of his life.