Richard Chapman Rutledge Sr., 66, of Holiday, FL, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2025, surrounded by his loving wife and children. Born on February 11, 1959, in SC, to William and Helen Rutledge. He married his high school sweetheart in 1978 and his love of warm weather took them to FL a few years later. A prominent fixture for 30+ years at the port of Tampa as a marine surveyor/petroleum inspector, he was well respected and trusted, eventually moving to the role of a shipping agent. Pursuing education was important to him, attaining a BS in Business Administration, at the University of South Florida, where all 3 of his children also earned their own degrees. Among other work accolades, he was constantly adding to his professional portfolio, earning his real estate license and CDL. Richard could talk to anyone about anything and valued relationships, in business and his personal life. He was a problem solver and innovator. He could talk for hours about civil war history and current events. His love of landscaping and sunshine, resulted in the most beautiful yard. He was passionate about Florida history, and its freshwater springs, good music, all things teal, and helping those in need. Above all, as a dedicated family patriarch, he most treasured his family and was especially proud of his 7 grandchildren and newest great-granddaughter. Rich was always honest and true to the golden rule. His robust and confident presence encouraged people to seek his sage advice, but in his final days, one of his trade secrets he shared with his family was sometimes you just “make it up as you go.” His family, will forever cherish his memory, love, and wisdom. Rich was a simple man, and the family is doing their best to honor his wishes. ​They plan to hold an intimate celebration of life in the near future.​In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Richard’s name to The American Cancer Society or Gulfside Center for Hospice Care at Heather Hill, in New Port Richey, FL.

Service Info:

Phone number attendees can reach out to for service: 813-270-0665