Dempsey Eugene Rutherford, 86 of Florence, died Friday April 28th 2017 at home with his family. Visitation will be 12:30 to 2:30 pm Sunday April 30th 2017 followed by the service at 2:30 pm at Elkins Funeral Home. Burial will be at Tri-Cities Memorial Gardens. Leading the service will be Rev. Kevin Johnson and Dr. Earl Gardiner, former teacher at Brandon School. Noel Beck will provide the music.Dempsey was involved in education for over forty years as a teacher and administrator. He was principal at Brandon School for 25 years and later the Elementary curriculum director for the Florence City Schools. He retired in 1994. Dempsey received his B.S. degree from Florence State College (UNA), his Masters from Peabody/Vanderbilt, and his Ed.S. from Florence State (UNA).The twenty-five years he spent at Brandon School was the highlight of his career. He loved the students, the community, and all the teachers and workers. For many years Dempsey was a member of the Florence Downtown Lions Club. He loved the friendships of his fellow Lions and the important contributions they made to helping others.His parents William Howard and Oleta Rutherford preceded him in death.Dempsey is survived by his wife of 55 years, Patricia. He also leaves his daughter and son, Amy and Ron Letson and his grand children William Rutherford Letson, Jacob McClain Letson, and Anna Claire Letson. His grandchildren were the most important part of his life. He shared with them his love of reading and learning and is leaving them hundreds of books that show the joy of reading. The family would like to thank April Chandler who made life so much better for Pat and Dempsey. Also thanks to Kathy, Adrianne, Shamona, Keta, Vera, Jessica for loving care. If you wish to honor Dempsey, please contribute to Florence Falcon Foundation, P.O. Box 1225, Florence, AL 35631 or The EYC program at Trinity Episcopal Church, 410 North Pine Street, Florence, AL 35630. Elkins Funeral Home would Like to Invite You to leave condolences at www.elkinsfuneralhome.com