James Rudden

1942 - 2025

James Rudden
08/22/1942 - 11/10/2025
Jim was born to Mary Baldwin Rudden and John Thomas Rudden on August 22, 1942, in San Francisco. He is survived by his wife Patricia Robinson Rudden; their children Katie Davidson (Phil), John Rudden (Dana), Beth Foster (Brent), and Peter Rudden; grandchildren MacKenzie Schledorn Rudden, Megan Class (Evan), Matthew Davidson, Malcolm and Molly Foster, Eleanor and Francine Bennett; and sister Mary Ellen Rudden. Jim was preceded in death by his brother Jack Rudden.
Jim ("Jimmy") grew up on 14th Avenue in San Francisco and attended St. Cecilia Grammar School, St. Ignatius High School, and the University of California. Business interests took him to Lakeland, Florida, where the Rudden family made their home for several years.
Jim's bountiful humanity was his defining quality. He believed "all mankind is us" and lived that principle. He led with humor, could find common ground with almost anyone, was generous in judgment and compassionate in response. Jim enjoyed conversation and had a large storehouse of "relevant" anecdotes willingly shared. He was a devotee of the "Never let the truth ruin a good story" school of narration. Studying history was his favorite pastime, he read constantly and would quote the big players. He listened daily to political commentary and worried about the future of the country. Jim liked to cook, considered himself a condiment guru and promoted favorites from fast food to fine dining.
Jim's love for family was boundless. His wife Pat was everything to him and his children and grandchildren sources of his gratitude and admiration. Valiant and hopeful through the years that leukemia stole his health, Jim's final illness came suddenly. He died November 10, 2025, surrounded by family. May he rest in peace.
Services will be at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to either
Talbot House Ministries 814 N Kentucky Ave. in Lakeland, Florida 33801
The Homeless Prenatal Program 2500-18th St. San Francisco, CA 94110