Rufesta Hyman Boutwell

Mrs. Rufesta Hyman Boutwell of Slocomb peacefully passed away on Friday, March 13, 2026, at Graceville Health Center, at the age of 93. Her life was a shining testament to faith, love, and unwavering devotion to her family and community.

Born on April 29, 1932, in Jackson County, Florida, to William Rufus and Addie Leola Underwood Hyman, Rufesta embraced life with a warm heart and a resilient spirit. A woman of deep faith, she loved the Lord and cherished God’s people, faithfully serving as a member of the First Baptist Church of Slocomb. She shared her gift by playing the piano for many years at various churches. Her joyful presence extended beyond the church walls to the Slocomb Senior Citizens Center, where she found delight in community and friendship. Known for her wonderful cooking and baking, many fondly remember her especially for her delightful chocolate cakes.

As a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Rufesta’s gentle spirit and loving nature touched the hearts of all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and grace that will be dearly missed by those she held close.

A celebration of Mrs. Boutwell’s remarkable life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, March 16, 2026, at the chapel of Sorrells Funeral Home in Slocomb. Her brother, Rev. Ennis Hyman, will officiate the service, with interment to follow at Slocomb City Cemetery. Family and friends are warmly invited to join at the funeral home one hour before the service to share memories and pay their respects.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents; husband, Grover Boutwell; daughter, Cathy Perry; and siblings Myrtle Hicks, Marie Mears, Addie Mae Martin, and Alford Hyman.

Mrs. Boutwell’s loving memory is cherished by her daughters, Janice Smith (Billy) and Sharon Meredith; her granddaughters, Tracy Landey and Jennifer Meredith; five great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; siblings Beth Wood and Reverend Ennis Hyman (Jan); as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who were truly blessed to know her kindness and grace.

Her memory will forever rest in the hearts of all who were fortunate to share in her remarkable journey, a beautiful legacy of love and faith that will endure through the generations.