Valeta Melba (Rutherford) Gothard

Springtown ~ Valeta Melba Gothard, 94, went to be with our Lord, Saturday, September 17, 2022 in Ft. Worth, Texas.

Graveside Service is 10:00 a.m. Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Greenwood, Texas at Greenwood Cemetery. Family will receive friends 6-8 p.m. Friday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.

Fred Raney will officiate.

Valeta was born December 25, 1927 to Harley and Ethel Francis (Richardson) Rutherford in Wise County, Texas. She was united in marriage to Loyd Thomas Powell, after only 16 years of marriage, he passed away. Valeta then married Ottis Milton Gothard, until his passing 33 years later. She was a graduate of the University of North Texas, having received her Master’s in Education. Valeta retired from the Birdville Independent School District after many years of teaching. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend to many who will miss her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harley and Ethel Rutherford; her 1st husband, Loyd Powell and Ottis Milton Gothard; 1 brother, and 1 sister.

Those left behind to cherish her memory are her longtime companion, Bill Rider of Alvarado; her sons, Thomas Powell and wife Susie of Springtown, Gregory Powell and wife Jill of Bowie, and Randy Powell and wife Becky of Athens; her daughters, Sonja Robertson of Colorado and Jana Collier of North Richland Hills; 10 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; her brother, Benny Rutherford and wife Johnnie; numerous extended family members and a host of friends.

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