Ms. Martina Rutherford

August 24, 1953 - September 23, 2021

Ms. Martina Rutherford, 68, of Peoria, IL transitioned to her heavenly home at 10 am on Thursday, September 23, 2021 at Washington Senior Living in Washington, IL. Martina was born on August 24, 1953 in Blue Mountain, MS to Randle, Sr., and Ella Mae (Collins) Rutherford. As a child, she and her family moved to the Peoria, IL area where she received her elementary education and graduated from Woodruff High School. Martina was a driver for Country Care Van Service for many years. She also was a former worker at Starcrest Cleaners. In her spare time, she was an avid bowler and member of a bowling league. She was a seamstress and enjoyed crocheting. Her family referred to Martina as an expert laundry person who washed clothes every day; even washing clothes for her family. Martina had a beautiful smile that could light up a room when she entered. She loved to travel and spend time with her family, especially her grandchildren. Martina leaves to cherish her most precious memories her loving and devoted family; 4 daughters, Marcina “Marcy” (Corey) Lee of Peoria, IL, Rasonya L. (Michael) Smith of Peoria, Monica Rutherford of Nashville, TN and Nicole Ocon of Peoria, IL; two brothers, Jimmy (Cathy) Rutherford of Sturdivant, WI and Randle, Jr. (Pat) Rutherford of Greensboro, NC; four sisters, Brenda (Charles) Stewart of Peoria, IL, Geraldine (Pastor Harvey) Burnett of Peoria, IL, Marinda Shipp of Peoria, IL and Vanessa (Louis) Farmer of Peoria, IL; a son-n-law, Javier Ocon of Peoria, IL; five grandchildren, Enya Shorty, Alexis Bryant, Moteo Ocon, Katalina Ocon and Cruz Ocon; two great grandchildren, Ci’Veah and Jae’Lani; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents; her life partner, Willie C. Morris; one sister, Dorothy Mae Davis and one brother, Andrew Rutherford and three infant siblings. A Private Funeral service will be held at 11 am, Saturday, October 2, 2021 at Simons Mortuary with a visitation for family one-hour prior beginning at 10 am. Pastor Harvey Burnett will bring words of comfort. Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at simonsmortuary.com. The service will be live streamed on Simons Mortuary's Website or Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Simons-Mortuary-232095303487150 promptly AT THE TIME OF THE SERVICE. Due to Covid-19 restrictions and to be consistent with recommendations from the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), funeral home directors have been instructed and should follow CDC guidelines on gatherings, including those directly related to funerals, visitations, or graveside services **In an effort to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, we ask that everyone in attendance: wear a face mask and refrain from hugging, kissing and shaking hands (as hard as it is to see someone you care about and not touch them). **It is our responsibility as Funeral Directors, to do everything we can to advise families in order to honor our beloved Families and to keep everyone as safe as possible. Thanks in advance for your cooperation!