Michael Rutland

In Loving Memory of
Michael Lee Rutland
June 26, 1963 – January 17, 2026

Obituary

Michael Lee Rutland, born June 26, 1963, as the fifth child to Marjorie and Lester Rutland, Michael peacefully closed his eyes surrounded by family with love, heavy hearts and tears walked into the eternal gates of Heaven with family patiently awaiting his arrival as the fifth member of the family to accept his final resting place on January 17, 2026.

Michael was the steady heart of his family—a devoted father, brother, friend, uncle, and deeply cherished grandfather. Michael’s love was tender, patient, and unconditional. He found joy in shared laughter, and simply being present. His grandchildren were his pride, and his love will continue to live on through each and every one of them.

Michael was soft and gentle at heart, with a warm sense of humor often expressed through playful sarcasm. He was a picky eater, sometimes moody, and proudly particular traits that only made him more endearing to those who knew him best. There aren't truly enough words to describe this one man affectionately known as Mr. Michael.

Music was a deep passion for Michael. He loved the timeless sound of Elvis Presley, the soulful melodies of The Commodores, the funky rhythms of the Gap Band, and the powerful lyrics of Tupac. Music carried his memories, lifted his spirit, and was a constant presence in his life.

Michael also found peace near the ocean. He embraced life’s journey with a sense of adventure, finding freedom on the open road while riding his motorcycle and joy in traveling to new places. His sense of style reflected his individuality—thoughtful, expressive, and uniquely his own.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Marjorie and Lester Rutland: Sister, Lois Moore, brother, Marvin Rutland. Nieces: Elizabeth Robertson-Rutland, Tamika Rutland, and Marlissa Martin. Nephews: Master Duwayne Rutland and Anthony Gause.

Michael leaves to cherish his memory his Partner in life and fiancée, Tonya Turner; Children, Turquoise and son-in- law Kenneth Harris, Miranda, Tajuana, Julian, Michael, and Gino Poindexter; twenty-two grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, all of whom will forever hold him dear in their hearts. He also leaves behind his siblings, William, Duwayne, Dreama, and Donna (DeDe) Rutland, Rebecca Massey, and Lovrocka and Lamarr Newbern, along with a host of extended family and friends who loved him deeply.

Michael’s family was his everything, and his life was a testament to love, devotion, and connection His grandchildren was his pride and joy. His loving legacy will on through them. Though his absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, his love remains—felt in quiet moments, heard in familiar songs, and carried forward through the lives and generations he touched. He will be remembered always, missed beyond words, and loved forever.

We the Family of Mr. Michael Lee Rutland promise to always cherish the memories that you left with each and every one of us. We promise to keep your spirit alive, to think of you with a smile while listening to your favorite song Zoom baby, I like to fly away.