Mrs. Cherry Braswell Rutland, age 67, of Covington, passed away Wednesday, February 3, 2010, as a result of a fifteen-year battle with breast cancer. Cherry was born in Jacksonville, Florida, to George and Bertrice Braswell. Soon thereafter, the family moved to Georgia. Cherry graduated from Avondale High School in 1960, where she cheered and played basketball. She received an RN from Georgia Baptist Hospital and a B. S. degree from Emory University. She was married to Robert (Bob) Rutland, of Decatur, for 44 years. While living in Redan, Bob and Cherry had three daughters. Cherry was extremely involved in the First Baptist Church of Redan, where she taught ladies, couples, and youth Sunday school classes, as well as singing in the choir. In 1996, she and Bob moved to Covington, where she was involved in the Garden Club, was active at First Baptist Church of Covington, and in a church plant called Crossroads. Cherry had a passion to see others grow in the Lord, which was made evident by her time and commitments. She continually prayed for people and gave generously to her church and numerous mission organizations. Cherry was a highly sought after friend, with a contagious laugh and beautiful smile. Her absence will leave emptiness in the hearts of many people. Cherry was preceded in death by her sister, JoAnn Barber. Survivors include her husband, Bob Rutland; daughters and sons-in-law, Dawn and Ken Trygg, Shelly and D. Hunter Hall, Carie and Clete Cordero; nine grandchildren, which she adored, Brielle and Tyler Trygg; Jackson, Steadman, Holden, and Lauren Hall; Ansley Braden and Carson Cordero; sister and brothers-in-law, Sally and Woody Giezentanner and Norman Barber. Funeral services for Mrs. Rutland will be held on Friday, February 5, 11:00 AM, at First Baptist Church of Covington, with Dr. Edward Salter and Rev. Jason Dees officiating and interment in Decatur City Cemetery. The family will receive friends at Caldwell & Cowan Funeral Home, 1215 Access Road, Covington, on Thursday, February 4, from 3-5 PM and 6-9 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Mission Fund @ First Baptist Church of Covington or to the Haggai Institute. www.caldwellandcowan.com to place online condolence 770-786-7062