James Carey Rutledge, lovingly known as “Carey,” passed away at home in Lone Jack, Missouri, on August 5, 2025, at the age of 80, surrounded by family. A devoted husband, father, proud Marine, quick-witted jokester, and lover of dogs, music and good conversation, Carey leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and stories that will be told for generations.

Carey was born on March 8, 1945, in Houston, Texas, to Elda and Weaver Rutledge. He served honorably in the United States Marine Corps before pursuing a career as an over-the-road truck driver and business owner in the trucking industry. Later, he transitioned into real estate, where his sharp mind and people skills continued to shine.

In retirement, Carey and his wife, Peggy, enjoyed many years on Crystal Beach, Texas, where they weathered Hurricane Ike together and built a life filled with music, sunsets, and real estate adventures. Carey was a proud member and dedicated President of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Chapter 3719. In 2017, Carey and Peggy relocated to Lone Jack, Missouri, to be closer to family in the Kansas City and Wichita areas. He was a member of New Liberty Church in Lone Jack.

Carey was many things—wise, strong, generous—but most of all, he was funny. He had a joke for every occasion and a song for every moment. Whether breaking into a Willie Nelson tune or leading a round of laughter at the dinner table, Carey knew how to lift a room—or at least elicit a good eye roll. He loved classic country music, politics, fishing, camping, card games, Whataburger, Blue Bell ice cream, the Houston Astros, the Kansas City Chiefs, and above all else, his family and friends. He never met a stranger and made everyone feel seen and welcomed. His patience was legendary, his stubborn streak equally so, and nothing brought him more joy than time spent with his grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Above all, Carey was a devoted and loving husband to Peggy—her steady partner through life’s calm and chaos, and the keeper of her laughter for nearly every day they shared.

In his final years, Carey worked part-time at the TA truck stop, where he brought humor, warmth, and kindness to coworkers and customers alike. Making people smile was second nature to him, and he continued doing it with joy until the very end.

Carey is survived by his beloved wife, Peggy Rutledge; his children and step children Tara Martinez (Leonard), Michael Beard, Gretchen Courtney, Bryan Broussard (Angela Bourgeois), Garrett Rutledge (Christine), Jennifer Adams (Jerryl); and his grandchildren and step grandchildren, Trevor, Kyle, Ashleigh, Elise, Blake, Elaine, Alara, Eli, Atticus, Jan, and Lyla; and many great-grandchildren. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and his cherished big sister, Lottie Crim.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings Lois Chambers, Jeanette Bullock, Weaver Rutledge, and Kathryn Rutledge. His family would like to thank Ascend Hospice and Palliative Care for their  love and support. 

Carey’s family finds comfort in knowing that his jokes, songs, and larger-than-life spirit will continue to echo in the memories and hearts of all who knew him.

A casual reception to celebrate Carey’s life will be held at New Liberty Baptist Church on Sunday August 17, 2025 at 12:30pm, and a memorial gathering will be held in Crystal Beach at a later date. 

Arrangements by Royer Funeral Home, Grain Valley, MO