Nicole Marie “Nyki” Rutherford,

Nicole Marie “Nyki” Rutherford, age 41, of Lincoln, Illinois, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones on October 10, 2025.

She was born on August 8, 1984, to Robert “Bob” Rutherford and Paula Rutherford and leaves behind her children Mykenna Rutherford and Korbyn Slimick; her siblings Brad (Rachael) Rutherford, Jason (Rebecca) Rutherford, and several aunts, uncles, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, aunt Paulette, and cousins Wesley O’Donoghue and Paul L. Mileham.

Those who knew Nyki remember her as a charismatic soul who never met a stranger. She expressed kindness through service, often helping people before herself. She was a friend to many, and her laughter could fill a room.

Nyki’s heart belonged to her children, Korbyn and Mykenna, who lit up her world. She did her best to show them how deeply she loved them. She was endlessly proud of them and cherished the joy they brought into her life.

Nyki also shared a close bond with her Grandma Betty, her favorite partner-in-crime for pranks. One of the family’s most treasured stories is from her dad’s birthday, when Nyki secretly took twenty dollars from his wallet and tucked it into his birthday card as a “gift.” She and Grandma Betty laughed hysterically as he opened the card in amazement at her generosity. The family finds comfort in knowing they are eternally reunited.

A lifelong resident of central Illinois, Nyki found joy and connection in music of all kinds. Most recently, she discovered a new sense of purpose working a karaoke job, where her voice and energy brought happiness to everyone around her. Music was more than a pastime for her – it was a companion through every season of her life, a friend that lifted her spirit in good times and carried her through the hard ones. When she sang, it was her soul speaking its purest truth.

She will be remembered for her unmistakable presence, her desire to help, and her gift for turning everyday moments into memories that last. In music, Nyki found peace, and her melody will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.

Cremation rites have been accorded, and a memorial visitation will be held from 3PM until 5 PM on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Holland Barry & Bennett Funeral Home. Prayers with Sister Margaret will begin at 5PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the family to help with expenses and to assist Mykenna and Korbyn.