Judith Anne Rutherford

Judith Anne Plett Rutherford passed away on September 3, 2023, following a lengthy stay in hospital, which she bore with resilience and fortitude.

Judith was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on November 2, 1942, the only child of Frederick and Lillian Miller Plett. She attended East Grand Rapids High School, where she formed many enduring friendships. Following high school, she entered the University of Michigan majoring in art. She graduated in 1964 with a Bachelor of Science in Design, while also earning her teaching certificate in art.

That year she moved to Syracuse, New York, where she taught art in the Onondaga County public school system. In 1965, she married John Rutherford, then pursuing graduate studies at Syracuse University. Their first daughter, Katherine, was born in 1968.

In 1970, the family moved to Halifax, Nova Scotia, where John had accepted a position at Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Medicine. Their second daughter, Alexandra, was born in 1971. Judith taught elementary school art in the Halifax Public School system until her retirement in 2003. After retiring, she pursued her interests in art and crafts, becoming an accomplished, imaginative, and productive quilt maker. She also excelled in embroidery, knitting, and needlepoint. She donated many of her creations to institutions and charitable causes.

Judith is survived by her loving husband, and by her devoted daughters, Katherine, a journalist with the CBC, and Alexandra, a professor in the Department of Psychology at York University in Toronto.

Judith’s family expresses their sincere thanks to the many skilled, compassionate and empathetic health professionals who cared for Judith during her stay at the QEII Health Sciences Centre. In particular, they extend their appreciation to the nurses, physicians, therapists and staff of the Geriatric Assessment and Progressive Care Unit at the Abbie J. Lane Memorial Hospital for all they did for Judith and her family. Their support and many kindnesses have left a lasting impression.

Cremation has taken place; no memorial services are planned.