Mr. Lavarne Rutledge

Lavarne Rutledge also affectionately known as “Barney” was born on March 12, 1952, in Detroit, Michigan to Elijah Rutledge and Mary Ophelia Rutledge, whom both preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by two siblings, Jewell Rutledge and Dwayne (Jester) Rutledge. Lavarne grew up in Detroit attending Detroit Public Schools and graduated from Cass Technical High School. After graduating high school, Lavarne attended Lawrence Technical University where he studied architectural design. Lavarne studied graphic designing at General Motors. Lavarne was an entrepreneur. He owned his own carpet business. He was a manager for ADYIAT STORES. Earlier in life, he was employed at Clyde Carpet. He was also employed at Home Depot Measurement Services in the resolutions department. Lavarne rededicated his life to Christ and was baptized at True Faith Baptist Church under Dr. Ned Adams Jr. He later became a member of Saint Phillips MBC under Reverend Alvin Hodges Senior. He loved Reverend Hodges and sister Hodges and the entire Saint Philips family. Lavarne was dedicated to God, he was prayerful, faithful, and dependent on God. Lavarne met his loving wife, Jean “Bennie,” in 2001. They were married on August 2nd, 2003. They shared 22 years of love, joy, happiness, and laughter. He was absolutely the best husband in the world. Lavarne loved God and gospel music, he loved people, and he loved life. He was a people person. At a younger age he loved to ride his motorcycle. He loved cooking on the grill. He would celebrate his birthday on the job by having a cookout at his job. He loved his chef’s coats and hats. He would speak to everyone whether he knew them or not. He loved his wife, son, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, brothers and his entire family. Lavarne’s cancer was devastating. He fought this disease for many years, he was a fighter. He never let cancer define him. He would not let it steal his joy. He fought until he could no longer fight. Lavarne made his transition at home on March 7, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones and family. Lavarne leaves to cherish his memories, his loving wife, and best friend Jean “Bennie”, son Reynard (Traicy), Grandsons Travis (Jalisa), Trevion, Reynard Jr, granddaughters Kamari, Ky’Lecia, Kayianna, great-grandsons Isiah, Prophecy. Brothers Eugene Rutledge (Virginia), and Jerome Rutledge, Uncle Raymond Burt (Emma), and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, close friends, and loving church family.

Mr. Lavarne Rutledge

March 12, 1952 - March 7, 2025