Rudolph was born to the late Lorenzo and Beatrice Jones in Newport News, VA on December 11, 1953. He departed this life on March 6, 2026.

“Rudy” as he was affectionately called, attended Newport News public schools and graduated from Menchville High School in 1972. He started his own business as a skilled Craftsman making cabinets, which he installed in homes and apartments, but his passion was music. HE WAS A NATURAL MUSICIAN WITH A GOOD EAR. He played by ear and reproduced songs just from hearing them without sheet music. Rudy was a member of the American Rock Soul Band “Jade”, which was formed in 1974. In 1975, Jade released their first album, “In Pursuit”, and because of its rarity, it has become a much sought after album. In 2010, he became one of the original members of Phazz II, an old-school funk and R&B band that performed at popular locations and festivals in the Hampton Roads area .He was a multi-instrumentalist and a mentor to fellow musicians. He was a Saxophonist, Vocalist and percussionist.

Rudy was selfless, always putting others ahead of himself. He consistently set aside his own needs to accommodate others, often neglecting his own physical health and never accepting pay. He was a fixture of the local music scene. Rudy was often called upon to play with various musical groups, performing rock, jazz, contemporary and even a little country.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lorenzo and Beatrice Jones, as well as his sister, Mertice Jones; his brother, Sterling Jones; and his daughter, Felicia Renee Williams.

He leaves to cherish his memory, grandsons, Larry Williams III and Justin Williams, Jr. of Lithonia, GA; Son-in-Law, Larry Williams, Jr.; his former wife and mother of his daughter, Patricia Pollard (Pat); Sister, Elaine Assad (Dawoud) of Charlotte, NC; two Brothers, Herley Jones (Mary) of Newport News, VA and Howard Jones (Marcella) of Syracuse, NY.

We are sincerely grateful to HERLEY AND Mary, who took care of him in his final days and ensured he got the best medical care. A devoted godson, Darnell Hooker of Little Rock, Arkansas; his beloved cousins, Rodderick and Anita Dade of Hampton, VA and Jason of Newport News, VA to whom the family expresses heartfelt thanks for his many kind deeds. A host of cousins, nieces, nephews and many kind and loving friends.

 Funeral service will be held 11 a.m. on Thursday, March 26, 2026 at O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers. O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.