Ward P. Rudder

Ward Pike Rudder, 59, of Destin, Florida passed away unexpectedly on Monday, May 9, 2022, at his home.

Ward was born February 11, 1963, to the late Ruben Francis and Clara Mable Rudder in Mobile, Alabama, but lived most of his life in Ft. Walton Beach, FL. where he graduated from Ft. Walton High School.   He was the seventh of eight children. Ward was a wonderful husband, father, and friend to all who knew him. He brought fun and laughter as soon as he walked into the room.  He was Bigger than Life.  He had a heart of gold, never hesitating to help others out.  He had a passion for life and lived it to the fullest.

His love for the game of golf took him to many beautiful courses throughout the southeast.  He was an avid golfer spending his weekends playing with his many golf buddies.   Most holidays were spent surrounded by family on the waters here in Destin. He was always up for happy hour no matter what time it might be.

Even though he said he was shy about singing, he could do a mean Elvis impersonation, much to the joy of his so-called audience.  Ward loved to tell stories and jokes which captured the room once he stood up.  His zest for life was unmatched and his sense of humor was second to none.  He represented the good we all need in our lives.

Ward owned and operated Gulf Coast Landscape Maintenance here in Destin for the past 25 years.  He had a passion for bringing beauty to the outdoors and loved creating beautiful wood art décor.

He is survived by his wife, Leslie, sons Jared Rudder Destin, Cody Conant Destin, Evan Sheward (Heather) Atlanta, daughters Sarah Mitchell (Justin) Los Angeles, California, Erin Conrad (Dan) Tallahassee, and Emily Magoon (Russ) Kathleen, Ga.  His grandchildren, Hadley, Ava, Caleb, Gideon, Luke, and Beau.  He is also survived by his siblings Ross, Bernie, Tony, Terry, and Mary, and a host of extended family.  Ward was preceded in death by his sister Beverly.

There will be a celebration of life at The Cabana Cafe, 112 Seascape Dr., Miramar Beach, FL. at 1:00 pm. on Friday, May 13, 2022.  All are invited to join in this celebration of Ward's life.

If you have a favorite photo of Ward please bring it to share.

Expressions of love and sympathy may be placed and viewed at www.mclaughlintwincities.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ward P. Rudder, please visit our floral store.