Arnoult Dale Rutledge

Arnoult Dale Rutledge, known to many simply as Dale, passed away on October 8, 2026, at Baptist Desoto Hospital in Southaven, Mississippi. He was born on May 4, 1953, in Memphis, Tennessee, and lived a life marked by hard work, music, and a deep love for the people around him.

For most of his career, Dale worked in construction and as a brick layer, giving his time and skill to honest labor. He was also known far beyond his work for the joy he brought wherever he went. A local legend to many, Dale was a familiar and welcome presence at restaurants, clubs, and gatherings, where he played the guitar, sang, and danced with easy spirit and unmistakable style. Always wearing his cowboy hat and boots, he carried himself with a warmth and character that left an impression. He loved all his family and friends, and he enjoyed singing and dancing, always with a smile.

Dale’s family was at the heart of his life. He is survived by his daughters, Shannon Harris of Red Bay, Alabama, and Vicki Chaney of Russellville, Alabama. Shannon shared her life with her husband, Jeremy, and Vicki with her husband, Larry. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Haley Emerson and her husband, Joseph; Brody Boyd and his wife, Gracie; Noah Chaney; Charles Wichus; Arleia Wichus; and Lorelei Wichus. He is further survived by his brother, Bill Rasmussen; his sisters, Winona Blevins and Rosie Rasmussen; and his uncle, Andy Rutledge and his wife, Virginia. In each of these relationships, Dale’s love of family and friendship found its truest home.

He was preceded in death by his father, H.C. Rutledge, and his mother, Bernice Rasmussen; his step-father, William Rasmussen; his daughter, Kimberly Wichus; his sister, Terry McCready; his brothers, Cleve Rutledge, Jesse Stewart and Gary Rasmussen; Patricia Rutledge, the mother of his children; and his wife, Peggy Billingsley. Their memories remained part of his life and story, and those who knew him will remember the devotion he carried for family across the years.

A family burial will be held on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Surretts Cemetery, 9705 Arkabutla Rd, Coldwater, Mississippi 38618.

Dale will be remembered for the music, the laughter, the cowboy hat and boots, and the bright, generous spirit he brought into every room. His song lives on in the hearts of those who loved him.