A tribute to Rutherford
Published 3:37 pm Saturday, November 6, 2021
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The late and former Atmore Fire Chief Charlie Rutherford, who passed away on Nov. 3, was honored today during a funeral procession downtown.
Between 15-20 fire trucks from various departments participated in the tribute procession to Oak Hill Cemetery.
Rutherford served as fire chief of Atmore for 44 years.
Some of his accomplishments include moving the fire department from volunteer to fulltime, adding an apparatus that helped lower the city’s fire insurance rating from a 9 to 4.
Rutherford helped create the Atmore Rescue Squad, trained many in the fire service and built the second fire station on South Pensacola Avenue.
Additionally, he rescued many people from burning buildings.
Rutherford’s casket will be carried on the back of an open cab American LaFrance pumper.