Walter and Susan Rutledge

Walter Rutledge, 90, and Susan Rutledge, 88, of Orlando, Florida, passed away just days apart, Walter on February 9, 2026, and Susan on February 11, 2026, their 70th wedding anniversary. After seven decades of devoted marriage, they left this world the same way they lived, side by side.

Walter was born on December 7, 1935, in St. Petersburg, Florida, to Burt Rutledge Sr. and Ann Rutledge. Susan was born on March 31, 1937, in Petoskey, Michigan, to Richard and Dorothy Densmore.

They were married at St. James Cathedral in Orlando and built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and service. Together they raised five children: Walter Rutledge Jr., Dorothy Liles, Mary Harvard, Michael Rutledge, and their late son, Joseph Rutledge.

Susan devoted her life to education, beginning her career as a teacher and later serving as Vice Principal of Colonial High School. She believed deeply in the power of learning and inspired countless students and colleagues. Her elegance, wit, strength, and unwavering faith shaped not only her family but an entire community. She taught her children to value beauty, kindness, and the mysterious gifts of life beyond simple utility. She listened without judgment and was always present when someone needed comfort.

Walter began his career as an optician and was known for his ability to connect with people. Whether discussing the latest Orlando Magic game, helping someone see more clearly, or offering hope during difficult times, he made everyone feel important. He never failed to tell those he loved how proud he was of them. His generosity was quiet but profound, once coming home barefoot after giving his shoes to someone in need. He faithfully served others, including helping feed the homeless, always putting others before himself.

Their Catholic faith was the foundation of their lives. They were devoted members of St. James and deeply committed to their family and community. A phrase they often said when surrounded by loved ones was, “Aren’t we lucky.”

They are survived by their children: Walter Rutledge Jr. (Vicki Rutledge); Mary Harvard (Joe Harvard); Dorothy Liles (Marty Liles); and Michael Rutledge (April Rose Rutledge). They are also lovingly remembered by their grandchildren: Courtney Stewart, Lindsey Leonard, TR Rhodes, Suzy Rivero, Marty Liles Jr., Melissa Bailey, Allie Harvard; and their great-grandchildren: Tanner Stewart, Makayla Stewart, Thomas Leonard, Charlie Leonard, Kit Leonard, Alexander Rivero, Chloe Rivero and Win Rutledge Rhodes; along with siblings Ann Peeples and Owen Densmore.

They were preceded in death by their son, Joseph Rutledge; their parents; and siblings, Nancy Gardner and Burt Rutledge Jr.

A joint service celebrating their lives will be held Friday February 27, 2026, 10:00 AM at St. James Catholic Cathedral, 215 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801, followed by graveside services at 11:30 AM at Greenwood Cemetery in Orlando. In lieu of flowers the family ask that donations be made to St. James Cathedral Church in honor of Walter and Susan. 

Walter and Susan Rutledge leave behind a legacy of faith, devotion, generosity, and enduring love. Their story is one of partnership, loyalty, and shared years, seventy of them, a rare and beautiful testament to commitment.