Ronald L. Rutledge

Ronald Leslie Rutledge was born on February 2, 1950, in Detroit, Michigan to Oprial Jones and Clinton Montgomery, Sr. He was the second of Oprial’s five children. Ronald was raised in Detroit and Royal Oak Township, Michigan. He attended Detroit and Oak Park public schools. From an early age he had a love for classic cars, enjoyed swimming, roller-skating, and dancing. As a young man, Ronald showed a drive to survive and be self-sufficient. He was known as an easy going, hard worker and loyal friend to many. Ronald graduated from Oak Park High School in 1968 and was employed by General Motors (GM) at the Pontiac Manufacturing Plant. He married Shirley Reed and from this union two sons Ronald K. Rutledge and Michael L. Rutledge were born. Ronald served active duty in the Army from 1971 to 1973, and in the Army Reserves until 1977. He also attended Oakland Community College and studied photography. In 1977, Ronald married Stephanie Dawson and from this union one daughter, Andrea M. (Rutledge) Walton was born. In addition to being employed by GM, Ronald was an entrepreneur and owned several businesses. His businesses included landscaping, retail clothing store, video arcade, property rentals, and limousine service. He later worked for Oakland County Water Resources and retired in 2012. During his retirement years, Ronald stayed active. He became an excellent ballroom dancer, devoted time to his family, and was always willing to lend a helping hand to others. Ronald was a believer in Jesus Christ and enjoyed attending church services. In 2020, Ronald was diagnosed with severe Alzheimer’s, and though he faced many challenges as a result, he lived a serene life still enjoying listing to R&B jams, dancing, walking, and visiting with family and friends. On October 26, 2025, Ronald made his peaceful transition to be with the Lord. To celebrate his life and legacy, he leaves his children: Ronald, Micheal, and Andrea; grandchildren: LaLesa, Niaja, Ronald, Bleu, Jaron, Saundra, Michael, and Xavier; his beloved great-grandchildren, surviving siblings, a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial donations to the Alzheimer’s Association in honor and memory of Ronald at the following website: https://www.alz.org/

Ronald L. Rutledge

February 2, 1950 - October 26, 2025