News Summary
The Williamsburg community is coming together to mourn the loss of Andrew Logan Rutherford Jr., affectionately known as Little Andy. He passed away at 72 after a brave nine-year battle with Parkinson’s Disease. His family reflects on the impact of his kindness and dedication, emphasizing his legacy as a loving husband, father, and friend. An active community member, Andrew will be remembered for his joyful spirit and commitment to family and friends.
Williamsburg, Virginia – The community is mourning the loss of Andrew Logan Rutherford Jr., a beloved figure known to many as Little Andy, Andy, and Santa Andy, who passed away on August 12, 2025, at the age of 72. Surrounded by family, Rutherford is fondly remembered as a loving husband, father, brother, and friend, cherished for his boundless kindness and unwavering dedication to those around him.
Rutherford’s death follows a courageous nine-year battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Known for his selfless demeanor, he leaves behind a legacy characterized by profound love, joy, and compassion. His family reflects on their time together with the belief that his passing was not an ending but rather a peaceful transition, aligning with the sentiment of Philippians 1:21: “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”
Born on February 6, 1953, at Bell Hospital in Williamsburg, Virginia, Andrew was the firstborn son of Andrew Rutherford Sr. and Sally Reed Smith Rutherford, the latter renowned in the community as the infamous candy lady. Throughout his life, he committed himself to putting the needs of others above his own, impacting everyone he encountered.
Community Engagement
Rutherford was a distinguished member of his community, thriving in various pursuits throughout his life. He was a proud graduate of James Blair High School Class of ’71, where he was involved in football and wrestling. His affiliations extended to multiple clubs, including AFS, Monogram, and Blarion, and he formed lasting connections at Thomas Nelson and Chowan College and local workplaces such as The Jefferson Inn and VDOT. Additionally, he actively participated in various community sports leagues.
His spiritual life led him to be an active member of several churches, among them Kings Way, Newtown United Methodist, and York River Baptist Church, where he found both fellowship and purpose. One of his most joyful experiences was portraying Santa Andy, sharing the message “Jesus is the Reason for the Season” with children, a role that brought him immense satisfaction.
Family Life
Rutherford is survived by his devoted wife, Gwen Rutherford, with whom he shared 48 years of marriage. The couple raised two daughters, Christina Luntzer of New Kent, VA, and Heather Rutherford-Small of Live Oak, FL, and are also proud grandparents to eleven grandchildren: Eric Jr., Elijah, Alyssa, Eliana, Eriella, Alyiah, Enoch, Alyson, Ezekiel, Ezraelle (Sarah), and Everleigh.
His family also includes a brother, John Rutherford of Tampa, FL, along with an aunt, uncle, several cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who loved and appreciated him deeply. The support of caregivers and friends, such as Dave and Vickie Stallard and Heartland Hospice, played a significant role during his illness.
A Lasting Impact
Throughout his life, Rutherford was known for his perfect attendance at his daughters’ events, demonstrating his unwavering support and love for his family. His commitment to building friendships in the community resulted in countless joyful and humorous memories, ensuring that his spirit will continue to resonate within the hearts of those who knew him.
Rutherford was preceded in death by his grandparents, parents, and a special grandchild, as well as several relatives and friends. His family finds solace in their belief that he has heard the words: “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21) as he steps into his eternal reward.
As Williamsburg reflects on the legacy of Andrew Logan Rutherford Jr., his influence as an exemplary community member, devoted family man, and joyful spirit will be remembered for generations to come.
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Additional Resources
- WY Daily: Andrew Logan Rutherford Jr.
- Wikipedia: Parkinson’s Disease
- WY Daily: Terrence Terry L. Dale
- Google Search: Williamsburg Virginia
- Legacy: Terrence Dale
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Williamsburg, Virginia
- Legacy: Tina Heisler
- Google News: Andrew Logan Rutherford
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
