Ronald Douglas Rutherford, Sr., affectionately known as “Ronnie,” passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at the age of 82, in his Daphne, Alabama, home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, Ronnie lived a life devoted to his family, community, and a distinguished career in law enforcement. After working for Delchamps for more than 12 years, he began his law enforcement career in 1976 as a volunteer reserve officer with the Mobile Police Department. In 1979, he joined the Mobile Airport Authority Police Department, where he rose through the ranks and was appointed Chief of Police in 1991. He retired in 2004 after 25 years of dedicated service, including 13½ years as Chief. Throughout his career, he was actively involved in numerous professional law enforcement organizations and received many commendations recognizing his leadership and service.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ronnie’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He shared 62 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Alice, and was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was especially proud of his children, Ron and Susan, and the businesses they built. He loved supporting their endeavors and especially enjoyed traveling with family and watching his daughter’s dancers take the stage.

Ronnie was known for his honesty, generosity, strong work ethic, and willingness to go above and beyond for others. A perfectionist with a stubborn streak, he also had a heart of gold. He loved Mardi Gras, golfing, horseback riding, bowling, fishing, grilling outdoors with an ice-cold Miller Lite, and cheering on his beloved Alabama Crimson Tide. Roll Tide!

Some of his most treasured moments were spent having tea parties and playing with his great-granddaughter, Havyn. Ronnie was also famous for giving the very best hugs, something his family and friends will forever cherish.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Alice M. Rutherford; his son, Ronald D. Rutherford, Jr. (Denny Knight); his daughter, Susan Florkiewicz; granddaughter, Caroline West (Austin); grandson, James Florkiewicz (Jordan); great-granddaughter, Havyn West; and brother, James “Jim” Rutherford.

He was preceded in death by his father, Wilfred Rutherford; mother, Ruby Mathis; sister, Winnifred Kerr; brothers, Jack Rutherford and Andrew Rutherford; and son-in-law, Michael D. Florkiewicz.

Ronnie’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched, the family he loved so deeply, and the unforgettable hugs that made everyone feel special.

A Memorial Mass celebrating Ronnie’s life will be held on Friday, October 30, 2026, at Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos Parish, 31122 US Highway 31, Spanish Fort, Alabama. There will be a time of visitation for the family from 10:00AM -10:30AM followed by visitation with family and friends from 10:30AM –11:30AM. Memorial Mass will follow at 11:30AM.

A gathering of family and friends will follow at the church.

In Lieu of Flowers, The family requests memorial donations to the Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos Parish Building Fund, with checks payable to “In the Seelos Tradition,” 31122 US Highway 31, Spanish Fort, AL 36527, or to Magic Moments at https://magicmoments.org/volunteer/give/.

Hughes Funeral Home, 26209 Pollard Road, Daphne, AL, is assisting the family. Expressions of condolences for the family may be made online at www.hughesfh.com.