Longtime furniture executive Henry Dyer Rutledge dies at 95

Played instrumental role in growth of Weir's Furniture in Dallas

Furniture Today Staff -- Furniture Today, September 14, 2009

DALLAS — Henry Dyer Rutledge, who worked in the industry for more than 80 years and had an instrumental role in the growth of Weir's Furniture here, died Sept. 10. He was 95.

Rutledge was born in Hubbard City, Texas, and moved with his family to Dallas a few years later. Rutledge began his career in 1928 as a delivery boy with the former Titche-Goettinger department store in Dallas and then joined the former Sanger Harris department store in 1947. In 1975, he became general manager of Weir's and played an instrumental role in the growth of the retailer from a small store operation to a multi-location major in the Dallas market.

He retired from Weir's in 1989, but remained active in the industry as a consultant to furniture manufacturers and retailers well into his 80s.

James Bryant, a longtime friend and founding dean of Criswell College, told the Dallas Morning News that Rutledge had "incredible people skills" and was sought out for his expertise on furniture. "Everybody who was anybody went to him for furniture," he said.

Rutledge is survived by his second wife Frances Rutledge, two daughters and a son, seven grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

The funeral service was to be held today at 1 p.m. in the sanctuary of First Baptist Church, 1707 San Jacinto, Dallas, Texas 75201. Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church in Dallas.

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