Rudolph Garner Jr.

Rudolph (Rudy) was born on September 7, 1942, to Rudolph Sr and Minnie Mae. He was a strong-willed child who was very vocal about his needs. He was a strong advocate for himself and proudly vocalized the things he wanted to accomplish.

Rudy was a proud graduate of East High School in Cleveland, Ohio. Upon graduation, he attended Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio. Rather than be drafted into the United States Army, Rudy enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he proudly served as an Intelligence Investigator for 4 years.

Religious Involvement

Rudy attended Mount Olive Baptist Church. Later in life, he followed the Nation of Islam practices and teachings.

Chosen Career and Work Activities

Upon leaving military service, Rudy worked at White Motor Company until they closed. From there, he was a metro park ranger and subsequently provided security at various events and businesses around the city of Cleveland.

Family

While attending Cuyahoga Community College after his military service, Rudy’s studies were again interrupted when he met Barbara Pursley (Garner). The two married on June 17, 1972. Rudy affectionally referred to Barbara as the Original Black Barbie Doll or OBBD. He always expressed how much he loved Barbara until the day he died. From their union came two daughters Gladys (Ronald) and Geniece.

Hobbies

Rudy loved to serve within the City of Cleveland, Ohio. He worked diligently towards helping youth, contractors, business owners within the inner city to prosper. Rudy loved Cleveland. He was an advocate for living and working within Cleveland city limits so much that he regularly attended city council meetings, parades, and mayoral meetings. Rudy earned the key to the City of Cleveland from Mayor Frank Jackson on October 18, 2010.

Treasured Memories

Rudy was known for his sense of humor. He told the silliest jokes and had the ability to make anyone laugh. Also, he had the ability to remember events that happened on any day that occurred while he was alive. He was known for introducing himself to everyone, anywhere. If asked, “Rudy, how are you doing?” His reply would often be, “Fine and dandy like sugar candy.” matter what the time of day.

Remaining Immediate Family

He leaves to mourn, Ex-Spouse Barbara; Children Gladys (Ronald) and Geniece; Grandchildren Deiahna, Terell, Kayleigh, and Kameryn; Brothers Kenneth and Brian (Michelle); Nieces and Nephews Christopher, Sonja (Johnny), Kimberley, Brian Jr, Phylicia (Michael); and a host of friends and family.

His parents Rudolph Sr, Minnie Mae, and Sister Annette, all preceded him in death.