Ralph Rutherford was born to the union of Louis and Inez Rutherford on January 19, 1943 in Chicago, Illinois.

Ralph attended St. Joseph Elementary School, and Corpus Christi High School.  He received his A.A degree from Crane Jr. College, his B.A from Illinois Teacher's College and his Masters degree from Chicago State College.

Ralph was an Associate Professor of Mathematics at Kennedy King College where he taught for many years.  He retired from Kennedy King College on May 14, 2011.

Ralph met the love of his life, Dorothy Rutherford, in 1988.  They were married on February 24, 1996.  They were married for 24 happy years and even opened a Convenience store, called The Neighborhood Store, which they enjoyed running tremendously as well as their teaching professions.  Also, many friends and relatives enjoyed working at their Neighborhood Store.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Dorothy Rutherford, his brother Telkia Rutherford and a host of relatives and friends.