Elizabeth Ann “Beth” Rutland, 44, died on May 4, 2025, in Aledo after a threeyear battle with cancer.
Beth was born July 7, 1980, in Dallas to Allen and Linda Dillon. The family later moved to Richardson, where Beth graduated from Richardson Berkner High School.
After attending the University of North Texas for two years, Beth transferred to Texas A&M University where she met the love of her life, David Rutland. After graduating from Texas A&M, David and Beth were married on Oct. 25, 2003, at First Street Church of Christ in Lampasas.
After a brief stint as an insurance agent, Beth embarked on a career as a teacher and coach in Lampasas. Beginning as a teacher’s aide in Lampasas Middle School, she obtained her teaching certificate for the State of Texas. She taught and coached at Lampasas Middle School first, then moved to Lampasas High School where she taught economics and coached Lady Badger volleyball and softball. Her volleyball team won a district championship, and she was loved by her players, students, fellow teachers and coaches.
Beth’s loving and gentle spirit touched so many people. She loved all animals and was involved in the Boxer Rescue for many years. Beth also loved to snow ski, and loved skiing with her family and friends in Colorado. In addition, Beth was an avid and skilled horsewoman, participating in horsemanship contests all over the state. She was awarded Novice All-Around Champion for Stock Horse of Texas in 2024.
Beth was preceded in death by her mother, Linda Dillon; and a brother, John Charles, at birth.
She is survived by her husband of 21 years, David Rutland of Aledo; a son, Chase, age 13; a son, Chism, age 11; her father, Allen Dillon of Weatherford; a brother, Scott Dillon of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; brothersin- law Jeff Rutland (Stephanie) of Lampasas, Ben Rutland (Alisan) of Plano, Mark Rutland of McKinney and Jim Collins (Cara); sisterin- law, Julie Rutland of McKinney; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Jim and Darlene Rutland of Lampasas; aunt, Debbie Floyd (Larry) of Plano; aunt, Nancy Tutera of Las Vegas, Nevada; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
Visitation took place May 7 at the South Main Church of Christ in Weatherford, followed by the funeral service at 2 p.m.
A visitation also was held on May 8 at First Street Church of Christ in Lampasas. The graveside service followed at the Oak Hill Cemetery.
Memorials may be made in Beth’s name to the Stock Horse of Texas Scholarship Fund: SHTX Foundation-Stock Horse of Texas Foundation, Inc.
