Our Beloved Brother in Christ, James Rudolph Hios Jr. was born on August 22, 1951. He went to be with the Lord on May 14, 2026, at 12:20 p.m. He was listening to Precious Lord, Take My Hand and was surrounded by family, both in person and in spirit. Even those who were not physically present, he knew were with him in love.

He was known to friends and family as “Rudy” or “Pop Rudy,” and to the ladies as “Rudolph.” He rarely used his given name, James, except for legal purposes.

Rudy had a remarkable career spanning over 50 years as a pipefitter and welder, a profession he truly loved. He earned numerous certificates and degrees, too many to list, and he mentored countless young men and women in the trade. Rudy believed in passing on his knowledge so it would not be lost to the industry he cherished. He often said, “They either loved me or hated me, but I got to them anyway!”

Few knew that Rudy held a doctorate in Theology and had a deep, personal relationship with Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He firmly believed in salvation through Jesus, teaching that one can only reach the Father, “Abba,” through Him. Rudy was devoted to spreading the Gospel, often distributing Chick tracts publications wherever he went to share the Good News of Our Lord and Savior. He wanted to reach as many as he could just as someone had reached him. If you ever received one from “The Sojournyer” in *Jesus*’ name, that was him.

Rudy is now reunited in heaven with many loved ones who passed before him, and he leaves behind cherished family who will one day be reunited with him in heaven on that glorious day. He is survived by his loved ones, including his wives, girlfriends, siblings, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. When God said, “Go forth and multiply,” Rudy embraced it fully. He opened his heart to the children and grandchildren of others, embracing them as his own. His love knew no bounds, touching all of God’s children, whether they walked in faith or were still finding their way.

Pop Rudy will be laid to rest at Chesapeake Highlands Memorial Gardens, a place he grew to love deeply later in life. He dedicated himself to maintaining the cemetery, sharing his knowledge, mentoring others, and forming lasting relationships there. Rudy had a way of making everyone feel like family, whether through a kind word, a mentoring moment, or a hearty laugh.

Rudy has fulfilled his purpose on earth, and his journey is now complete.