WILLIAMSBURG — Rudolph Valentino “Rudy” Arrington Jr., 62, entered into eternal rest, Saturday, June 13, 2020, in fulfillment of God’s plan for his life, at home with his loving family by his side.
“Rudy” or “Val,” “Boop,” “Pop,” “Big-Dog,” as he was affectionately known by many, was born Saturday, May 13, 1958, to the late Kay Frances and Rudolph Valentino Arrington Sr. of Queens, New York. He was a Class of 1973 graduate of August Martin High School.
After high school, he started his career with the U.S. Coast Guard. While stationed in Norfolk, he met and married the love of his life, Kathy Reed, who he affectionately called “Boop,” stealing her from Norfolk State University. On Nov. 30, 1996, he retired from the USCG as a chief mechanic from the Engineering Training Group, Little Creek, with over 20 years of service.
Rudy continued working after retirement with Canon, Walmart, Target and Marshalls. He also was a member and willing worker of Little Zion Baptist Church, Williamsburg (Grove), and a former past worshipful master MACEO Consolidated Lodge No. 124 F. & A.M., Williamsburg.
Rudy was a loving husband, father, son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle and friend. He loved fishing, working on cars and was an all-around handyman. He also enjoyed sitting around reminiscing about the “good ol” days with family and friends.
Rudy was preceded in death by his parents-in-law, James Hardy and Sarah Reed; and brother-in-law, William “Boomer” Reed.
Rudy leaves to cherish fond memories with his wife of 41 years, Kathy Reed Arrington; two sons, Rudy Valentino Arrington III and Jamel Arrington (Tasha aka “Lil Bit”); daughter, SarahKay Arrington; two sisters, Brenda Arrington and Joyce Arrington; brother, Bliss Arrington; sister-in-law; Vivian Reed-Terry; brother-in-law, Jerome Reed (Phyllis); foster granddaughter, Amiyah; faithful friends, Alwaajid Asmar Hanifa Beybeyah, Will Williams, Will and Lisa Williamson, Alfred Simons, and Bennie “Bo” Parker Sr.; the “Straight out of Grove Crew”; and a host of other relatives and friends.
A viewing will be held from noon to 5 p.m., Friday, June 19, at the funeral home. A celebration of life service with military honors will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, June 20, at Little Zion Baptist Church, Williamsburg, with the Pastor Wayne S. Tucker officiating. Facebook livestreaming will be available for this service. Social distancing will be enforced.
Share online condolences with the family at Whiting’s Funeral Home.
