Phil was born June 8, 1924 to Mylous Elzeberry Rutledge and Minnie Rosalee Rutledge in Dallas, Texas. He passed on September 16, 2014 in Tyler, Texas. He was one of eight children and grew up tough and hard headed. He joined the army at 17 to serve in World War II in France and Germany. Phil married Lillie Littrell Rutledge on January 16, 1948 and they had one son, Phillip Ronald Rutledge. Phil was a member of Painters Union #53 and worked in construction most of his life. Phil was a member of the American Legion of Mount Vernon, TX. He was a former Post Commander of Mt Vernon VFW Post # 3992 and was currently a member of Pittsburg VFW Post #5398. He loved his family, fishing, vine ripe tomatoes, and Coca Cola.
He is survived by son Phillip and his wife Kay, Grandson Rocky and his wife Paulette, Grandson Stoney and his wife Wendy and great-grandchildren Ian and Isabella Rutledge. Phil is also survived by one brother D.L. Rutledge and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by longtime companion, Glennis Gibson.
Phil is preceded in death by his parents and wife, Lillie Rutledge.
A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Friday, September 19, 2014 at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Chapel in Allen, Texas. Interment will follow at Chambersville Cemetery in Chambersville, Texas. The family will receive friends during a visitation being held Thursday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.