Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

April 2, 2026

Gerald A. "Rudy" Rudisill, Jr. passed away peacefully in Charlotte, North Carolina, on April 2, 2026. Born in Badin, North Carolina, Rudy was the son of the late Gerald "Jake" Alton Rudisill and Virginia Garrison Rudisill. Raised alongside his three siblings and surrounded by a large extended family in Badin and Stanly County, he carried a deep pride in his roots and the community that shaped his character.

After graduating from Badin High School, Rudy earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, remaining a devoted Tar Heel throughout his life. In 1966, he was commissioned as an officer in the United States Army after completing Officer Candidate School. He later served in Vietnam, where his experiences strengthened both his compassion for others and his lifelong commitment to service.

In 1970, Rudy joined the North Carolina National Guard, beginning a distinguished career marked by steady leadership and unwavering dedication. Over the years, he held numerous command and operational roles, ultimately rising to the rank of Major General. In 1993, he was appointed Adjutant General of the North Carolina National Guard, where he led more than 11,500 soldiers and airmen with integrity and pride. In 2001, he was called to serve at the Pentagon as Assistant to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff for National Guard matters, a role he held until 2003. His many honors include the Distinguished Service Medal, the Bronze Star Medal, and the Legion of Merit.

Following his military service, Rudy continued his commitment to public service in Raleigh, North Carolina, serving from 2003 to 2014 as Chief Deputy Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Crime Control and Public Safety and later as Chief Deputy Secretary for the Law Enforcement Division of the North Carolina Department of Public Safety. After retiring from state government, he returned to Charlotte, where he remained active in the community through his work with the Greater YMCA of Charlotte.

Rudy devoted his life to serving his country, his state, and the communities he loved. He was deeply involved in organizations including the Boy Scouts of America, the YMCA, Kiwanis, Rotary, and the Triangle Red Cross Board of Directors. His many recognitions include the North Carolina Order of the Long Leaf Pine and the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award. A man of deep and abiding faith, Rudy was a longtime devoted member of Sardis Presbyterian Church in Charlotte, where he found fellowship, purpose, and spiritual grounding.

He is survived by his son, Brian Rudisill (Tricia); his wife, Sue Rudisill; and his cherished grandchildren, Elizabeth-whom he affectionately called "Little Darlin"-and Ben Rudisill, all of Charlotte. He found his greatest joy in time spent with his grandchildren, creating lasting memories fishing, at the beach, and at the Harris YMCA. He is also survived by his loving siblings, Betty Huneycutt of Burlington, William "Bill" Rudisill of Wilmington, and David Rudisill (Margaret) of Mount Gilead, as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews whom he dearly loved.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of The Southminster Community for their compassionate care.

Rudy lived a life defined by duty, humility, faith, and service to others. He led with strength, cared deeply for those around him, and left a lasting impact on all who knew him. His legacy endures in the lives he touched, the institutions he strengthened, and the family he loved so dearly.

A soldier to the end-steadfast, proud, and faithful. HOOAH.

A funeral service to celebrate Rudy's life will be held on May 2, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at Sardis Presbyterian Church in Charlotte, North Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to The NC National Guard Soldiers and Airmen Assistance Fund, 7410 Chapel Hill Road Raleigh, NC 27607.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.