Zeno Lee Rutledge, lovingly known as "Z.L.," was born on August 16, 1940, in Lumberton, Mississippi, in Lamar County. From a young age, he was raised with a deep love for God and the importance of faithfully attending church. He and his family, alongside his sisters Francis, Sonja, and La'Rue could often be seen walking to services at Sunny Hill United Pentecostal Church in Purvis, Mississippi.

In 1964, Z.L. married the love of his life, Wanda Moss Rutledge, and together they built a beautiful life centered on love, faith, and family. They were blessed with one son, Timothy, who brought great joy and pride to their lives.

Z.L. was a hardworking man and a member of the Union in New Orleans, where he served as a dedicated Hopeman. Among his many accomplishments, he and his crew helped build the roof of the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, a project he took great pride in throughout his life.

Every fall, Z.L. looked forward to gathering with his family in Lumberton for the time-honored tradition of making sugar cane syrup. The process began with hand-cutting the cane, preparing it for syrup, and spending weekends after Thanksgiving gathered on the Rutledge property. These moments of laughter, work, and togetherness became cherished memories for his family, grandkids, nieces, and nephews, all under his watchful and loving eye.

To Z.L., God and Family were everything. His life was a testament to steadfast faith, hard work, and enduring love. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts and lives of all who knew him.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at Sunny Hill Pentecostal Church in Purvis. Interment will follow at Slade Cemetery in Purvis. Rev. Jeffery Jones will officiate the services. The Rutledge family will receive friends on Wednesday morning beginning at 9:00 am, up until the hour of service at 11:00 am at Sunny Hill Pentecostal Church.

Hathorn Funeral Home in Columbia is in charge of the arrangements. Friends can sign an online guest register book at www.hathornfuneralhome.com.