09/09/2025
Willard Elden "Elton" Rutledge
Willard Elden “Elton” Rutledge, age 82, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, September 7, 2025. Elton was born on February 3, 1943, in Wayne County, North Carolina, to the late Richard Rutledge and Irene Corbett Davis. He was also preceded in death by his beloved grandparents, Henry and Florence Corbett.
A faithful member of Tabernacle Baptist Church, Elton had a deep love for his Bible and a steadfast faith in his Lord and Savior. He proudly served in the National Guard for six years and was well-known throughout eastern North Carolina as a highly respected flooring contractor for over fifty years.
Elton was a man of many passions. He enjoyed golfing, riding his Harley-Davidson, and lifting weights, but most of all, he cherished traveling with his family and exploring the beauty of the country together. He will be remembered for his contagious laughter, joyful spirit, and the way he could light up every room he entered.
He is survived by his devoted wife of forty-eight years, Susan Tosto Rutledge of Wilson; his daughter, Andrea Rutledge Viverette and her husband, Shane of Wilson; and his grandchildren, Lauren Alaina Hearne and her husband, Brysun of Nashville, and Connor Russell Eason of Lucama. He is also survived by his sister, Cindy Davis Hinson and her husband, Jim of Goldsboro; his nephews, Zack Hinson and his wife, Hope of Owassa, Oklahoma, and Adam Hinson and his wife, Cassie of Greenville; and his niece, Alice Cordell and her husband, Matt of Greensboro. Elton’s great-nieces and great-nephews, Elijah Hinson, Jadon Hinson, Davis Hinson, Olivia Cordell, Lillie Grace Hinson, and Lorelai Hinson, also carry on his memory.
A homegoing service will be held Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at Tabernacle Baptist Church, 1815 Airport Blvd W, Wilson, North Carolina, 27893 officiated by the Rev. Adam Hinson, Rev. Zack Hinson and Rev. Joe Shakour. The family will receive friends at the church prior to the service, beginning at 5:30 p.m. A graveside service will follow on Friday, September 12, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in Cedar Grove cemetery, 475–499 Railroad Street N, Elm City, North Carolina 27822. In addition, the family welcomes friends and loved ones to visit them at their home in Wilson throughout the week.
Elton’s family invites all who knew and loved him to join in celebrating his remarkable life, his unwavering faith, and the love he poured into those around him.
Condolences directed to Joyner’s Funeral Home and Crematory at www.joyners.net.
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