Tupelo – Carolyn Gail Rutledge passed away peacefully, with family by her side on Monday, May 12, 2025, at UAB hospital in Birmingham, Alabama. Carolyn was born on July 2, 1951, to Mattie Idell Ward and Sidney A. Ward, who preceded her in death. She was a 1969 graduate of Woodland High School. She also attended Business School in Memphis, TN, Earning an Associate Degree in Business.  She was a long time real estate assistant for Shirley Curry.

She was married to Billy Q. Rutledge, who preceded her in death. She is survived  by her only son Chris Rutledge of Saltillo, MS, one granddaughter, Olivia Rutledge of Saltillo, MS, two brothers Doyle Ward (Mitzie) of Tupelo, MS, Larry Ward (Susan) of Tupelo, MS; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Carolyn loved life, going to her favorite beach and looking over the ocean, gardening and spending time with her many friends. She always turned the negative times into a positive and knew how to make jokes to uplift others.

Memorial gifts may be made to the American Cancer Society in lieu of flowers.

There will be no services at this time.