In loving memory of
Amanda West Rutherford
August 11, 1983 — November 14, 2020
Amanda West Rutherford brought warmth, quick wit, and caring service to those around her—an active Girl Scout life member who loved country music, line dancing, and her Gulf Coast community.
Remembering Amanda
A life held close in memory
Amanda West Rutherford (August 11, 1983 – November 14, 2020) is remembered for her generous spirit, lively sense of humor, and devotion to community. A Long Beach High School graduate, Amanda stayed close to the Gulf Coast through her family ties and friendships, and she took pleasure in the simple joys of everyday life.
Amanda’s commitment to others showed early: she was a life member of the Girl Scouts, earning bronze, silver and gold awards and the Marion Medal, and returning as a counselor at Girl Scout summer camps. Those who knew her recall a compassionate person who offered a steady shoulder and an encouraging word to friends and neighbors.
She pursued further education at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and Blue Cliff College and worked with Fayard Moving and Storage. Amanda enjoyed creative pastimes—personalizing cups, mugs and glassware with vinyl designs—and she volunteered her time studying American Sign Language and helping at the de l’Epee Deaf Center in Gulfport. Active in local pageants in earlier years, she was recognized for both her community involvement and her bright presence.
Amanda loved country music and line dancing, and to be with her at a dance was to see someone who knew the songs and steps by heart. Family and friends remember her quick wit alongside a compassionate nature that made ordinary moments feel warmer.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on November 20, 2020, at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church in Long Beach, followed by burial at Evergreen Gardens in Gulfport. In lieu of flowers, her family suggested contributions to the State Victims’ Compensation Fund or the de l’Epee Deaf Center, reflecting Amanda’s lifelong interest in serving others.
Her family—parents, siblings, extended relatives, and many friends—carry forward memories of Amanda’s laughter, her steady heart for community service, and the small creative touches she left in people’s lives. She is remembered as someone who loved deeply and gave freely of her time and talents.
Shared moments
From the gallery
Words from family and friends
Recent remembrances
She will be remembered with warmth and care. May her memory remain close in the hearts of all who loved and remember Amanda.