We lost a dear friend on April 22, 2011. Although we didn't get the news until after the visitation and the funeral were over our hearts ache for Sis. Irene, Rudy's wife of 63 years. Rudy and Irene have been our close friends for many years. They welcomed us into their lives, their home and their hearts when Kelly Jo and I were only teenagers.
May God bless Irene and her children. I know this has to be terribly difficult for them.
I met Rudy at Red Lion Church when I was 16. His infectious smile won me over instantly. Through all these years Rudy made it a priority to be my personal encourager. He always had an extremely positive attitude and did his best to infuse that positive attitude into others.
Rudy always pointed me to the bright side, cautioned me about dwelling on things I can't change and challenged me to focus on the things I can change. He always extended a hand of friendship and he ALWAYS did it with a smile. Anybody that knew Rudy will never forget that smile.
Rudy helped shape who I am today. Much I the advice that I give others is rooted in those long talks with my dear friend Rudy Middleton.
He wasn't a preacher but he loved preachers and he loved gospel music. He loved to play his 1957 Gibson J-200 guitar and sing old gospel songs. One of his favorites was "God Reached Way Below The Bottom." Rudy was just as content to play his drums while others were singing. Oh the hours we've spent playing music with Rudy in churches, living rooms and basements.
Rudy was a very hard worker, a fiercely loyal friend and a Godly man. My world is a better place because of Rudy and I have a sneaking suspicion that I am only one of very many who could say the same thing.
Rudy, I'm confident I'll see you in just a little while. Thanks for choosing to be my friend and doing it so well.
Davy
Rutherford "Rudy" Middleton, age 83, of Franklin, OH; died Friday April 22, 2011 at Miami Valley Hospital. Rudy was born in Owsley County, KY on January 5, 1928 to Columbus and Mary (Moore) Middleton. He was a veteran of U. S. Army after WW II serving in Germany and loved singing Christian music. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Ernie, brothers Berlin and Lester, and Edgar Johnson. Rudy is survived by his wife 63 years Ruth Irene (Hutchins) Middleton; a daughter Joyce Aills and her husband Steve; 2 sons J.R. Middleton and Doug Middleton and wife Carol; grandchildren Josh, Chris, Zach, Sarah, and Christy; great grandchildren Samantha, Willy, Allie, and Jason; sister Freda , a brother Chester.
