Mariam Thayer Rutter

Clintwood, VA – Mariam Thayer Rutter, age 81, passed away on Sunday, January 29, 2023, in Norton Community Hospital surrounded by loving family. Formerly a resident of Bristol and Sterling, VA, Mariam was a graduate of Virginia High School and Sullins College.  She was a talented artist and pianist.  Mariam worked several years for Loudoun County in Leesburg VA; and as a paste-up artist at National Wildlife Federation. While at Wildlife, she was the production artist on one of the very popular Ranger Rick books for children.  Mariam was preceded in death by her parents, Hazel Harley Thayer and Ralph Wilson Thayer.

She is survived by her son, Marshall Rutter and wife Hope of Mineral, VA; sister, Gina Thayer-Coleman and husband Larry of Jonesborough, TN; brother, Glenn Byron Thayer and wife Sheryl of Hypoluxo, FL; four grandchildren, Erika Michelle Rutter, Allison Elizabeth Rutter, Andrew Apache Coleman, and Brett Alexander Coleman.

The family will hold a private interment at Knollkreg Memorial Park, Abingdon, VA, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 3:00 PM, March 25, 2023, at the Woodmen of the World Family Activity Center, 1997 Long Crescent Road, Bristol, VA 24201. 

Mariam was a lifelong cat lover, giving a loving home to many throughout her lifetime. For those wishing to honor her memory, the family suggest making a donation to a local Animal Shelter or Humane Society.

Those wishing to express sympathy online may do so by visiting www.farrisfuneralservice.com and signing the online guest register.  The family of Mariam Thayer Rutter is being cared for by Farris Funeral Service & Crematory, 427 East Main Street, Abingdon, VA 24210, (276) 623-2700.