Samuel Ray Rudolph

Samuel Ray Rudolph, 68, passed away on Wednesday, February 4, 2026. Born in Morehead City, NC, he was a son of the late Cecil Ray Rudolph and Carole Frances Webb Rudolph. He was a graduate of Colonel Ledyard High School, Thames Valley State Technical College, and Johnson and Wales College. Mr. Rudolph worked as a computer programmer for various companies in Texas such as Gulf State Utilities, White House Department Stores, MTech, First Security Financial Services, and First National Bank of Port Arthur. Later, he was employed with Blue Cross Blue Shield and SCE&G/SCANA before retiring from Dominion Energy.

Sam lived for the things that made him feel alive, camping beneath open skies, riding dirt bikes, car racing, hiking, and being in the mountains he loved so much. His hobbies weren’t just pastimes; they were his way of connecting, building friendships, and finding joy. Through them, he made lifelong friends and a community that meant everything to him. Adventure, freedom, and camaraderie were at the heart of his life, and anyone who shared those passions with him knew his generous spirit and love for living.

Surviving are his daughter by choice, Shari Strange; sister, Linda D. Carlson (Lonnie); brother, David Rudolph (Kathy); nieces and nephews, Taylor Pitts (Jordan), Chad Carlson (Savannah), David C. Rudolph (Jessica), Kaley Rudolph (Daniel); and numerous great nieces and nephews.

A gathering for family and friends will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, March 14, 2026 at his residence.