Ernest Rutherford, Jr., 87, of Northbridge passed away on February 15, 2024. He was born January 1, 1937, to Ernest and Lillian (Persif) Rutherford in Worcester, Massachusetts. He joins his pre-deceased wife, Beulah A. (Bester) Rutherford who passed away, October 10, 2007.

Ernest is survived by his grandchildren: Timothy W. Dupree, Gordon L. Dupree, Jr. and Shawn D. Van Der Burgt, as well as many great grandchildren.

He served in the United States Air Force for 6 years, being Honorably Discharged with the rank of Airman 2^nd Class, July 4, 1963.  He was employed as an Automatic Press Operator at the former Bay State Abrasive Company-Westborough, Massachusetts for over 3 decades.  He was also employed as a part-time clerk at Stop and Shop-Shrewsbury, Massachusetts for roughly 7 years.

Ernest was passionate about his Christian faith, serving as an ordained Deacon for 51 years at John Street Baptist Church in Worcester, Massachusetts. He enjoyed spending time with close friends, church and family members.

He was also an avid sports fan and loved watching the Boston/Atlanta Braves, Boston Bruins, Boston Celtics and the New England Patriots.

A calling hour will be held on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, from 10:00am to 11:00am with a Funeral Service starting at 11:00am at MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester. Interment will immediately follow at Worcester County Memorial Park, Rutland, Massachusetts.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Ernest’s memory to AdviniaCare, 85 Beaumont Drive, Northbridge, Massachusetts, 01534 or John Street Baptist Church, P.O. Box 2696, Worcester, Massachusetts, 01613, Attn: Soup Kitchen.