William Rick Rutledge was a remarkable man who was known for his unique ability to live 48 hours in 24. He was born on October 29, 1952, in Dallas, Texas, to Collie Clarence and Dorothy Jean (Talley) Rutledge. Rick passed away on December 28, 2023, in Fort Worth, Texas, leaving behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.

Rick was a proud alumnus of the University of Tulane in New Orleans, Louisiana. He was a talented athlete and played football while he was a student. Rick and his team participated in the Astro Bluebonnet Bowl in 1973, but fell short to Houston. In 2022, Rick and his '73 teammates were inducted into the Tulane Hall of Fame for being among the best teams in the university's history. Moreover, they were the first Tulane team to beat LSU in over 20 years.

Rick moved from Broken Arrow to Edmond in 1992. He was a past member of St. Augustine's Episcopal Church and Life.Church.

It was at Life.Church where Rick met his beloved wife, Cindy. They taught a class called "Choosing Wisely Before Divorce." Their shared passion for helping others united them, and they tied the knot on December 31, 2009.

During his career, Rick worked in medical sales for 28 years and established Rutledge Medical. Later, he became a teacher and worked in special education for 15 years. He was still working at Edmond North High School at the time of his passing.

Rick was a kind and generous man who loved to give back to his community. He was a proud volunteer for Habitat for Humanity, the Bethany Children's Hospital, and the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma.

Rick is survived by his wife Cynthia; his children Rick Oakes Rutledge and wife Aurora; Lauren Fassio and husband Brent; Laura Hudani and husband A.K.; Christy Bell; his grandchildren: Brody, Van, Lachlan, Alexis, Tristan, Teddy, Emersyn, and grand pup Daisy. He is also survived by his fur babies Peanut, Bullwinkle, Flash, and Thomas; sister Colleen Beasley; and niece Kristina Beasley; brother-in-law Seth Southern and wife Becky; nephews Greg Southern, Richard Southern and wife Michelle, Matt Southern, Austin Southern, and wife Amber, seven great-nieces, and two great-nephews. Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Collie and Dorothy Rutledge and his first wife Bogena Oakes Rutledge.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, January 5, 2024, at 2:00 P.M. at the Hayes Funeral Home Chapel with Rick Myers officiating. Burial will follow at Summit View Cemetery.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 4, 2024, from 12:00 – 7:00 P.M.