Rudolph Merle Sprouse

Rudolph M. Sprouse, 87, of Jacksonville died Monday, September 12, 2016. He was born November 12, 1928 in Mobridge, South Dakota to the late Marvin E. and Sylvia G. Dahlgren Sprouse. Rudy served his country in the United States Air Force and retired after 21 years and also retired from the Arkansas Department of Employment Security after 21 1/2 years. He was a life member of the Disabled American Veterans, Lions International and Hospital Auxiliary. Rudy was a volunteer at the Jacksonville Medical Clinic for almost 10 years and most recently, a volunteer at the city library. Rudy was a member of the Jacksonville First United Methodist Church where he served in many different capacities; as a Stephen Minister, Lay Leader, certified Lay Speaker, member of the Administrative Council, served in every office of the United Methodist Men and as the lead greeter and "candy man" at all Sunday morning services for nearly 40 years. Rudy enjoyed taking cruises and traveled to almost all of the Caribbean Islands as well as Mexico, Venezuela, Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, the Panama Canal, Hawaiian Islands, Canada and Alaska. About some other activities that Rudy enjoyed, he wrote, "At the time of my retirement from the Employment Services, I needed to find out what made grown men and women chase a little white ball around - in rain, in snow, in 20 degree and 100 degree temperatures. I bought some well used golf clubs, and was hooked on the game the first time I played. Just the average "old duffer" who enjoyed playing golf - but what really made it worthwhile was the companionship of those with whom I played. And every duffer's dream came true for me - a hole in one. I also enjoyed gardening - especially growing tomatoes. Each year I planted far more vegetables than were needed for our table and Mary always fussed at me. I wanted to make sure of having enough in the event of a bad crop, and to be able to share with friends and neighbors." In addition to his parents, Marvin E. and Sylvia G. Dahlgren Sprouse Grage, Rudy was preceded in death by his son, Terry Sprouse; his brothers, Theodore and Marvin Sprouse, Jr. and sisters, Marvel Sprouse and Darlene Kingsley. Rudy is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Mary Wilhelm Sprouse; daughter, Brenda White (Kenneth) of Cabot; daughter-in-law, Carol Sprouse of Vestal, New York; brother, Jens Grage of Ottumwa, Iowa; sisters, Annette Gugel of Watertown, South Dakota and Jane Ristau of Mansfield, South Dakota; four grandchildren, Randy and Robby White and Jonathan and Jennifer Sprouse; eight great grandchildren, Kristen, Riley, Skylar, Aubrey, Adelynn and Rachel White and Emma and Maddie Sprouse. Of his extended family, Rudy writes, "I have been a "foster" grandparent to many through the years. I pray that my love and mentoring has had and will continue to have a positive effect in each of their lives as well as all others who have been close to me." Memorial gifts may be made in Rudy's name to the United Methodist Youth at Jacksonville First United Methodist Church; 308 South Main Street; Jacksonville, Ark. 72076. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, September 16, 2016 at Moore's Jacksonville Funeral Home (501) 982-2136. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Saturday at the First United Methodist Church. Entombment will follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Park. Please sign the online guestbook at www.mooresjacksonvillefuneralhome.com.