John Davis Rudd's Obituary
In Loving Memory: John Davis Rudd
John Rudd, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, man and friend, was born on February 25, 1936, in Alexandria, Virginia, to Taylor and Ruby Rudd, and passed away peacefully on January 16, 2026, in Largo, Florida.
John was preceded in death by his loving wife Eleanor “Pudgie” Rudd, his mother, Ruby Davis Rudd, father, Taylor Rudd, and brother, Taylor “Teddy” Rudd.
John graduated High School in 1956 from GW High School in Alexandria, VA, John joined the National Guard in 1958 and was honorably discharged in 1962.
John and Pudgie were married in Alexandria Virginia, June 5, 1959, and resided in Alexandria until early 1970 when they moved the family to Pinellas Park FL where he and Pudgie resided for the last 55 years. He was a “Parker”.
John is survived by his two children that were the pride and joy of his life, Sharon (Cole) Miller and Jeff Rudd, along with five grandchildren, Craig, Brad, Taylor, Gregory, Teddy and four greatgrandchildren, Beverly, Evelyn, Tyler and Hadley. All who brought immeasurable happiness to his life. He took great delight in all of their achievements and shared in their sorrows as well. John loved being a grandfather and took immense joy in being around his grandchildren and creating precious memories with them.
He and Pudgie were fixtures at the grandchildren’s school and sporting events. Whether he was playing street hockey with the grandchildren and the neighborhood kids, working the chains at the high school football games, photographing their sporting events or just a grandparent in the stands, John loved participating in their lives.
Throughout his career, John worked as a land surveyor where he demonstrated dedication to his craft and worked hard to set a good example for his coworkers, some whom described him as a father figure. After retirement John worked for Gulf Coast Dermatopathology Lab as a courier and loved his connections with all the doctors’ offices he visited to pick up as he called them “body parts”. John took pride in whatever the task and did his best to bring a smile to anyone he met.
John embraced his community and became actively involved as a coach with baseball, basketball and soccer for various teams in Pinellas Park. He loved his time as a football referee for youth and high school football. He inspired and motivated young athletes, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.
As an avid golfer, John found great pleasure being on the course or in the backyard hitting balls into a net. He often played with his wife, children and grandchildren and they all cherished this time with him. He played weekly with a group of friends at Cove Cay golf course where he was able to proudly make a hole in one in 2007 and again in 2020. He had the pleasure of going to the Masters with his grandson in 2016. John said Augusta was heaven on Earth, and Roy McIlroy was his new best friend. John embraced his health by having every device, trinket or book that would help him stay fit. He ran two marathons in his lifetime. He played ice hockey until almost 60 and was a huge Lightning fan. He was always waiting for the call to fill in for Vasy. He grew up a Washington Redskins fan, became season ticket holder until the family moved to
Florida, and remained a loyal follower of them until he passed. He genuinely loved the Washington Redskins.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Oak Manor Nursing Home for providing exceptional care for John during his final four months of his life. John formed deep and meaningful connections with the wonderful friends he made there. Their compassion and dedication brought comfort and peace to both John and his loved ones. In accordance with John's wishes, there will not be any service. However, let us remember his vibrant spirit, his sense of humor and the love he shared with his family and friends. John's legacy will forever resonate in our hearts and lives.
Peace be with him, as he is resting as he wished.
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