Cecelia Antionette Rutledge, lovingly known as "Momma," "Grand C," and "Ms. Cece," transitioned to eternal life on January 29, 2025.

Born on October 28, 1958, in Kingsport, TN, Cecelia was the beloved daughter of James Rutledge Sr. and Linda Rutledge Ewing. She was also blessed with the love of bonus dad, Raymond Ewing. Cecelia spent her formative years in Hampton, VA, where she graduated from Kecoughtan High School. Throughout her life, she dedicated herself to caring for others, working as a caregiver and in childcare. A devout Christian, she attended many churches, finding comfort and community in her faith.

Cecelia was known for her warm and welcoming personality—she never met a stranger. She had a love for puzzles, crocheting, and games, but her greatest joy was attending her grandchildren's events and celebrating their accomplishments. She had a passion for traveling, embracing new experiences, and creating lasting memories with her loved ones and everyone she ever met. Cecelia had a natural gift for caring for children. Over the years, she became a second mother and grandmother to so many, watching over and nurturing not only her own family but the children of friends and loved ones.

She often expressed her enthusiasm with her signature phrases: "I know that's right," "Gurrrlll," and "What you said."

She was preceded in death by her parents, James Rutledge Sr. and Linda Rutledge Ewing, her bonus dad, Raymond Ewing, her granddaughter, Carla, and her grandparents, Addie Belle Lollis, David Lollis, Carl Dayton Rutledge, and Ora Lee Rutledge.

Cecelia, a beloved member of her family, leaves behind a heartwarming memory that will be cherished by all. She is survived by her son, Bryant Douglas Rutledge, and his wife, Lindsay Rutledge; her daughter, Kalista Rutledge. Grand C leaves her biological grandchildren, Jasmine, Bryant, and Ava, along with a host of claimed grandchildren. Cecelia is also survived by her bonus daughter, Gabriel McNair, and grandson, Dilion.

Cecelia is also survived by her siblings, Crystal Rutledge, Karmaleta Johnson (Michael), Linda Ford (Kenneth), James Rutledge Jr., and Karen Bell, as well as her bonus siblings, Raymond, LeRoy, Stella, Herbie, and Melissa Ewing. She was also blessed with her chosen sisters, Sheila Taylor and Berita Prescott, who, along with many dear friends, nieces, nephews, cousins, and the countless children whose lives she touched, will deeply miss her.

Cecelia's love, kindness, and unwavering support for those around her will be deeply missed. Her legacy of warmth, adventure, and joyful memories will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.