Morton Charles Rathbone, age 88, of Rutherfordton, N.C., was reunited with his beloved family and friends on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at his home surrounded by family.

A native of East Meredith, N.Y., Mort was born April 9, 1938 to the late Merritt and Ruth Rathbone. He was preceded in death by all six of his siblings.

Mort was a fixer and creator of all things, working for years as an appliance and small engine repairman and eventually owning his own business doing the same. After retiring to Dade City Florida in 2004, he quickly became known as the go-to man around the neighborhood for help or a tool. He was quick to join in with any project. He loved camping, playing cards, shuffleboard, country music, woodworking, making folk art crafts, and spending time with family and friends. In 2022 he relocated to N.C. where he continued working in his wood shop every day.

He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Sharon Rathbone, his son, Steve Rathbone (Kathleen), daughter Christine Rathbone-Santosky (late Spencer), daughter Donna Sand; six grandchildren, Brenna Rathbone, Devon Rathbone, Mikayla Fulton (Eric Waddell), Jacob Sand (Amanda), Abigail Sand, Nathaniel Sand, two great-grandchildren, Lesley and Alexa, along with an extended family of nieces and nephews.

There will be a Celebration of Life at McMahan’s Funeral Home at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2026 with Reverend Aimee Hobbs officiating. There will be no formal visitation. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Heart of the Foothills Animal Rescue, 380 US-221, Rutherfordton, N.C. 28139, in memory of Mort and his love of animals. McMahan’s Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.