Tryon, N.C. - God has a new angel. Phyllis Long Rutledge, 89, of Tryon, NC died Tuesday, January 29, 2013 in Hospice House of the Carolina Foothills, Landrum, SC.Born in Johnstown, PA, she was the daughter of the late John and Esther Teter Long and was the widow of James Rutledge who died in l993. Phyllis was a retired English teacher having taught for 25 years at Polk Central High School. After retirement she was a dedicated volunteer with St. Luke's Thrift Shop, Tryon Youth Center Board, Polk Community Foundation Scholarship Committees, and the Polk County Mental Health Board. She served at the MedAssist Outreach Ministry for 10 years, and the St. Luke's Hospital Auxillary for 25 years where she was a past president, vice president and secretary. Phyllis was an avid golfer and bridge player; she loved the beach, time with friends and anything that involved her family. Her cheerful disposition, pleasant smile, compassion for others and steadfast determination to overcome health problems were an inspiration. She was loved by many and will live forever in our hearts. Surviving are a son, Jim Rutledge, Jr. (Barbara) of LaGrange, GA; two daughters, Ann Sellers of Tryon, NC and Susan Bowman (Tagg) of Columbus, NC; three grandsons, Johnathan, Benjamin and Jeffrey Sellers and step-grandchildren Brett Bowman (Angela) and Alex Weathers (Stormy) and step great-grandchildren Brannon & Madison Weathers and Rascal (the cat). She was preceded in death by a sister, Barbara Seidel and brothers, Jack and Jim Long.Memorial services will be announced at a later date. The family would like to extend a special thank you to St. Luke's Hospital, Hospice of the Carolina Foothills, White Oak Manor, and especially to her wonderful caregivers at Benson Hall.In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.
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