In Loving Memory of Gwenice Diane Rutoskey

A Life of Faith and Love

Gwenice Diane Rutoskey, 68, of Auburn, Alabama, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2026, surrounded by her husband, children, and loved ones. Born on August 18, 1958, in Fort Stewart, Georgia, Gwenice was deeply devoted to the Lord Jesus Christ. Her faith touched the lives of her family and friends, and she embraced life fully—through its darkest days and its moments of rainbows and bluebirds.

Gwenice cherished her family, from Tennessee to Alabama. Her steadfast support brought comfort and joy to her friends, and she never turned away a person or creature in need of peace or sanctuary. She celebrated with others in times of happiness, stood beside them in times of sorrow, and was truly God’s angel to all who knew her.

The Things She Loved

Gwenice treasured date nights with her husband, especially going to a new movie with popcorn and a cherry ICEE. She delighted in searching for antiques, browsing thrift stores, shopping for clothes, and tending her garden—something she did exceptionally well. She also enjoyed long drives to visit friends and explore the countryside. Her favorite destinations were beaches from Maui to Gulf Shores, where she loved the sun, sand, surf, shrimp, and crab claws.

Education, Career, and Legacy

Gwenice graduated from Samford University and earned her master’s degree from UAB. Her professional life included work with nonprofit organizations and in human resources at UAB. Above all, she embraced the calling of motherhood, leaving the workforce to devote herself to her husband and children. Her enduring legacy lives on through her children and their children, whose lives will continue to make the world a better place because of her love and guidance.

Family

Gwenice is survived by Mitch Rutoskey, her husband of 38 years; their children, Ryan and Holly; her mother, Anita Harris; her beloved nieces, Robyn Little and Kim Tucker; and many cherished cousins and other loved ones. She was preceded in death by her father, Gwendylon D. Harris, for whom she was named, and her brother, Bob Harris.

Celebration of Life

A celebration of Gwenice’s life will be held on Wednesday, October 28, at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home and Crematory, 1801 Frederick Road, Suite A, Opelika, Alabama 36801, and family will receive friends at 10:00. Her final resting place will be Southern Heritage Cemetery, 475 Cahaba Valley Road, Pelham, Alabama 35124.

Forever Remembered

Gwenice’s kindness, love, and memory will remain in the hearts of all who knew her. Devoted to the Lord, she understood that one of her greatest callings was to be a loving mother—a commitment that also made her a devoted wife. She will be forever cherished and remembered.

My Mom was an amazing woman. She loved those close to her through compassion, shared laughs, and, of course, taking you shopping. My mom spent her life caring for others. She spent countless hours driving to my sister’s and my sports, being the room mom at our schools, and volunteering wherever she could to be closer to us. My life has been full of love because of her. She won’t be here to fill my future, but we can all carry on her legacy of compassion and fun by living in a way that celebrates her every day. I love you, Mom. Thank you for loving me. Ryan Rutoskey

My Mom was not only everything a mom should be but also a friend and a confidant. She did not know the definition of sacrifice because she never saw what she did for my brother and me as a burden. She was kind, warm, and most importantly, silly. She protected my brother and me from the world’s harsh truths and walked with us when she could no longer shield us. She has helped me become the woman I am today. Mom was my light and taught me to carry my own. So even if she is not physically here, my light will always shine bright in the darkest of days. My mom’s spirit lives in everyone she loved and all who loved her, because a mother’s love never ends. Holly Rutoskey

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.