Eleanor "Pudgie" Elizabeth Rudd's Obituary
In Loving Memory: Eleanor Elizabeth Rudd
Eleanor "Pudgie" Elizabeth Rudd, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, was born on May 23, 1938, in Alexandria, Virginia, to Charles Edward Lucas Sr. and Virginia "Beanie" Mae Lucas. She peacefully passed away on June 26, 2023, in Largo, Florida.
Eleanor is survived by her loving husband of 64 years, John Davis Rudd, who cherished her deeply and considered her his best friend. In 1970, they made the momentous decision to relocate from Alexandria, Virginia to Pinellas Park, Florida, where they resided for the past 53 years.
She is also survived by her children Sharon (Cole) Miller and Jeff Rudd, who were the pride and joy of her life. She took great delight in their achievements and shared in their sorrows.
Eleanor delighted in her role as a grandmother and took immense joy in her grandchildren. Craig and Brad, Gregory, Teddy, and Taylor, brought immeasurable happiness to her life. Furthermore, she was blessed with great-grandchildren Beverly, Evelyn, Tyler, and Hadley, who were a source of endless love and delight.
Eleanor had a strong bond with her siblings. She is survived by her sisters Dottie Redmon, Margaret Kozel, and Martha Seibert, as well as her brother Tommy Lucas. She was preceded in death by her brother Charles "Butch" Lucas.
Eleanor was deeply saddened by the loss of her father in 1973. In 1977 her mother relocated to Florida to live with Eleanor and her family. They shared 17 years together until her mother’s passing in 1994. She carried their love and memories in her heart throughout her life.
Throughout her career, Eleanor worked as a dedicated purchasing agent for a construction company, where she demonstrated her professionalism and attention to detail. However, her true passion lay within her family. She adored her children and took immense joy in her role as a grandmother, creating precious memories with her grandchildren.
Eleanor possessed a remarkable talent in the kitchen and was renowned for her culinary skills. Her specialty was making puffs, especially alongside her mother, a delight that brought smiles to the faces of all who tasted them. Additionally, she had an insatiable love for crabs and could devour a whole bushel, relishing every succulent bite.
During her time in Florida, Eleanor embraced her community and became actively involved as a cheerleader coach for the Pinellas Park Thunderbirds for six years. She inspired and motivated young athletes, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.
As an avid golfer, Eleanor found great pleasure on the green. Her husband, John, lovingly indulged her by allowing her to win their friendly matches, which brought them both joy and laughter. One of Eleanor's most cherished accomplishments occurred on March 15, 2007, at Rocky Point Golf Course, where she proudly made a hole-in-one on the 6th hole. Furthermore, she was an ardent fan of the Washington Redskins football team, demonstrating her unwavering support and passion for the sport.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Oak Manor Nursing Home for providing exceptional care to Eleanor during her final year and a half. Eleanor formed deep and meaningful connections with the wonderful friends she made there. Their compassion and dedication brought comfort and peace to both Eleanor and her loved ones.
In accordance with Eleanor's wishes, no formal service will be held. Instead, let us remember her vibrant spirit, her zest for life, and the love she shared with her family and friends. Eleanor's legacy will forever resonate in our hearts and minds.
As we bid farewell to a remarkable woman, let us celebrate the joy she brought into our lives and find solace in the knowledge that she now rests in eternal peace.
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