Jovita Olivarez Rutledge

Jovita Olivarez Rutledge, a spirited and loving soul who blessed this world with her intelligence and caring heart, went home to rest with her personal Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Jovita passed away peacefully on April 16, 2024, in McAllen, TX. Born on October 12, 1933, in Delmita, TX, Jovita's journey through life was marked by joy, dedication, and the love she shared with her family and friends. She is preceded in death by her loving husband, Dan Rutledge, Jr, her parents Luis and Macaria Olivarez, and 8 brothers and sisters.

Jovita was a pillar of her community, known for her bright smile and generous spirit. She graduated with the class of 1952 from San Isidro High School and furthered her education by attending business courses at Pan American College. Her strong work ethic led her to become the head cashier at Globe Discount City, where she worked for 27 years. Jovita's passion for helping others guided her to a second career as a Library Aide with Valley View ISD and Hidalgo ISD, retiring after 15 years of faithful service.

She met life's challenges with grace and embraced its joys with open arms. Jovita and her beloved husband, Dan, were often the life of the party, and their love for dancing and socializing was well-known. Sundays at the Rutledge home were a cherished tradition, where family gathered for Jovita's much-loved roast and mashed potato dinners.

Jovita's legacy is carried on through her family, who were her pride and joy. She is survived by her sister, Ernestina Guerra (Juan); her three loving children, Cindy Rutledge Webb (Andy Guerra), Daniel Rutledge III (Lucy), and David Rutledge (Letty); her adored nine grandchildren, Daniel IV, Eric, April, Amanda, Lisa, Ashley, Brandon, David Christian, and Daniel Andrew; and her treasured great-grandchildren, Jacob, Damian, Elijah, Emma Grace and Evan Luke.

In her lifetime, Jovita touched many with her warmth and kindness. The Rutledge family will forever remember her for the strength and love she exemplified. Her memory will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her, and her influence will be felt for generations to come.

Jovita Olivarez Rutledge's life was one of love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to family and community. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary woman, we take solace in knowing that her legacy of love and compassion will live on in the hearts of those she touched. Her unfailing spirit and the joy she found in life's simple pleasures will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

A service to celebrate Jovita's life will be held by her family at Rivera Funeral Home located at Pecan and Bicentennial on Friday, April 19th. Visitation will start at 5pm with a short service and a special rosary at 7pm. Another short service will be held at the funeral home on Saturday at 10am, prior to the escort to the Hidalgo city cemetery where she will be laid to rest. Jovita lived a full and beautiful life. Her family takes comfort in knowing that her journey was a testament to a life well-lived and that her memory will serve as a beacon of love and resilience for all.

A special and heart-felt thanks goes out to the wonderful, caring staff at Windsor Las Palmas Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for the expert and loving attention they provided to Jovita throughout her stay at their facility. 

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