Theresa Martina Rudolph

Theresa Martina Rudolph, age 74, of Gladstone, Missouri, passed away on December 4, 2025, surrounded by family. A devoted and loving wife, sister, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend, she will undoubtedly be missed by many. Her presence made every room brighter, and those who knew her best will continue to carry her light forward.

Theresa was born on July 12, 1951, in Ennistymon, County Clare, Ireland, to parents Frank and Tess Guthrie. Throughout her life, she carried her Irish warmth, humor, kindness, and unwavering strength with her. After her mother passed away when she was just 16, Theresa left Ireland to live briefly in England before moving to Brookside, Missouri. Though far from home, Theresa kept her Irish roots close to her heart—honoring traditions, recounting treasured memories, and sharing luck and goodwill with all those around her.

Upon her arrival in Missouri, Theresa began working as a technician at Dr. Lawrence Littlefield’s optometry practice. During this time, she met the love of her life, Dr. Charles Rudolph Jr. The two were united in marriage on May 17, 1976, beginning a beautiful life together in Raytown, Missouri, later settling in Gladstone. Their deep, steady love served as the foundation of their family, passing on their shared respect and tender care to all who graced their home.

Theresa’s greatest joy was her family. She poured her love into her children: Charles J. Rudolph III, OD; Victoria Rudolph, RN; and Karen Wilson, DVM (Cody Wilson, PhD). She also cherished her grandchildren: Charles J. Rudolph IV, Liam Rudolph, Mikaela Copley, Kyle Wilson, Carlie Wilson Killion (Kade), and Claire Wilson. Each of them was a source of immense pride for Theresa. She never missed a chance to celebrate them or remind them how deeply they were loved.

She is also survived by her brother, Michael Guthrie (Pat); her sister-in-law, Janet Rudolph Cox (Fred); and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. Theresa was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Charles Rudolph Jr.; her sister, Margaret Tyhurst; her brother-in-law, John Tyhurst; and her parents, Frank and Tess Guthrie.

In honor of Theresa’s lifelong dedication to her family, memorial donations may be made to the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital, in care of the Rheumatology Department, Iowa City, Iowa.

Irish Blessing

“May the road rise to meet you,

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face,

The rains fall soft upon your fields.

And until we meet again,

May God hold you in the palm of His hand.”

A visitation will be held at White Chapel Funeral Home, located at 6600 NE Antioch Rd, Gladstone, MO, 64119, on December 20, 2025, from 2:30 pm to 3:00 pm.

A Celebration of Life will follow at the same location from 3:00 pm to 3:30 pm and will be available via live stream at https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/c25121427563701.