Ms. Loretta Townsend Rutland, 83, of Ruth, Mississippi passed away on Friday, January 6, 2023 at her daughter's residence in Monticello, MS. Loretta was born December 21, 1939 in Brookhaven, Mississippi to James Townsend and Jennie Greer Townsend-Davis.

Visitation will be held on Monday January 9, 2023 from 10:00 AM until funeral services at 12:00 PM at Wilson Funeral Home in Monticello, MS. Graveside services will follow at Providence Baptist Church Cemetery in Jayess. Bro. Jeffery Conn will officiate the services with Wilson Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

Loretta was a Licensed Practical Nurse for over seven years, afterwards she became a cosmetologist-barber for over ten years. She dedicated her later years to caring for her grandchildren. She always loved working with the public and serving others. She was always present with joy and laughter through good times and bad. She always said if I'm not joking, I'm not coping.

Loretta is survived by her son, Gordon A. Rutland of Ruth, MS and daughter Jennifer Sikes (Kevin) of Monticello, MS; grandchildren Gage Brister (Rachel), Grace Sikes Viniard (Dalton); one great-grandson Noah Gage Brister all of Monticello, MS; one brother Charles Nicholson Davis of Brookhaven, MS; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Loretta was preceded in death by her parents, husband Gordon Lane Rutland of 63 years; her son Timothy Lane Rutland; sister Ramona Rutland and brother James Riley Townsend.

To share condolences please visit www.wilsonfuneralhomemonticello.com