Jane Rutter

Jane Rutter died on May 21, 2025. Born Sarah Jane Wheeler, she was the daughter of James Guthrie Wheeler and Bertha Ferguson Wheeler. A graduate of Connecticut College, she spent most of her life in Paducah, quietly serving her church and community through her many activities.
 
Learning and writing were always important to Jane. Practicing love and patience, she dedicated over 40 years to teaching elementary and high school students. She belonged to the Delphic Club and enjoyed writing research essays to share with them. Never one to seek publication, Jane wrote when she wanted to about things that interested her. She leaves a legacy of love, kindness, and intelligence.
 
She was also an avid gardener. Jane rejoiced in growing vegetables and flowers. She was active in the Paducah Garden Club, helping with plantings at Noble Park and on Jefferson Street. She went horseback riding with her father for many years, and practiced yoga up to and including her time in the Providence Pointe nursing home.  A quietly spiritual person, Jane belonged to the Order of Daughters of the King and served on the Grace Church Altar Guild. She grew up in the church and spent most of her life as a committed member.
 
Jane is survived by a daughter, Sarah (John) Mayfield of Hoover, Alabama; a son, Wheeler (Josie) Underwood of Paducah; three grandchildren, Whitney Michele Elrod (Ben), Jadianne Underwood, and Mariah Underwood Boyd (Jacob); four great grandchildren, Marley Jane Renfroe, Jack Henderson Renfroe, Adrian Boyd, and Kora Boyd. 
 
She was preceded in death by her husband, J.R. Rutter; two sisters, Bertha Wheeler Wenzel and Mary Wheeler Hilliard; and her parents, James Guthrie Wheeler and Bertha Ferguson Wheeler.
 
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Grace Episcopal Church, 820 Broadway St., Paducah, KY 42001.
 
Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at Grace Episcopal Church from 10:00 AM until the service hour of 11:00 AM. The committal service will be held at Oak Grove Cemetery after the service.
 
Milner & Orr Funeral Home and Cremation Services are in charge of arrangements. 
 
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