Obituary for Rex Harrison Rutledge
Rex Harrison Rutledge, a longtime resident of Pullman and Colfax, entered into eternal rest on September 13, 2025, at the age of 66.
He was born on April 6, 1959, in Pine Hill, Alabama, to Willie Rutledge and Fannie Randolph. His parents later migrated to Morristown, New Jersey, seeking greater opportunities for their family. Rex graduated from Morristown High School in 1978, where he was a member of the golf team and known for his friendly and kind spirit. He became a Class-A Caddie at Springbrook Country Club in Morristown and was later promoted to Caddie Master — making history as the only Black Caddie Master at Springbrook. His family was deeply proud of this accomplishment.
Rex’s life was marked by service, faith, and community. He volunteered faithfully with the local food pantry and Family Promise of the Palouse. He rarely missed the senior meal in Colfax, where he became a familiar and beloved presence. He was also active with the Pullman Senior Center. As a proud member of the Colfax Rotary Club and Eagles, Rex was often seen at pancake breakfasts and fair booths, apron on, ready to serve with a smile.
In 2000, Rex left New Jersey for the west coast, where the Lord led him to his second family, Ron and Gail Webster of Colfax. His relatives in New Jersey are forever grateful for the love and care extended by the Websters and the communities of Colfax and Pullman.
Rex also found a spiritual home at Peace Lutheran Church in Colfax, where he faithfully attended for more than twenty years. He served as church custodian, choir member, youth leader, and council member, always eager to lend a hand wherever needed. He rarely missed a Sunday and was often the first to arrive and the last to leave. His dedication also extended to synod gatherings, campus ministry, Meals on Wheels, and community clean-up efforts. His presence at Peace Lutheran was a blessing that will be dearly missed.
Outside of his church and community service, Rex was an avid sports fan and loyal supporter of the Seattle Seahawks and Mariners. Attending a Mariners game was a highlight for him. He also enjoyed playing golf and spending time with friends who shared his passion for the game. His deep faith guided him in both word and deed throughout his life.
Rex was preceded in death by Ron Webster, who became like a father to him, and Noel Webster, who was like a brother. He is survived by Gail Webster of Colfax; Michelle Webster of Washington, D.C., and Harvey, the family dog. His brother, Kenneth McCoy of Dallas, Texas; his Aunt Lucy Adams of Morristown, Ellen Delaney and Gwyneth Dale in North Carolina. He had many cousins in Morristown, New Jersey, and San Diego, California, who will miss him dearly.
A service of remembrance and celebration of Rex’s life was held at Peace Lutheran Church in Colfax.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Peace Lutheran Church, or the Colfax food pantry.
Peace Lutheran Church: Where Faith and Community Meet
Food For Thought
Our Concrete River Days “Boat Float”
Everyone smile for the camera!
Hans, Wren, and Pastor Ian McMichael, Marilyn Wigen, Gail Webster, Rex Rutledge, Dorothy Feldman, Harvey Webster, Marvin Wigen.
Photo credits: Kristi Nelson and Georgie Leinweber.
Practicing our smiling and waving in the parking lot before the parade.
Harvey was our very special rider.
Pastor Ian, Hans and Wren were ready to roll!
“Fishing“ and throwing candy in the parade. We must have been really speeding along to make this photo blur!
The Swedish fish and “testa-mints” were a big hit with the younger parade watchers!
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Senior Sunday
Grace Jones, Marchele McNeilly, and Karly Wigen listen attentively as they receive a blessing from Pastor Ian.
Pastor Ian praying for the graduates and their families.
Receiving their quilts from the Peace Stitchers. Each girl’s quilt is in their university colors.
Ready to celebrate with cake and more…
