Elijah Michael Rudd

Elijah Michael Rudd, 18, of Kokomo, passed away at 1:57 pm, Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at his home. He was born on December 6, 2007 at Howard Community Hospital in Kokomo. He is the son of Teresa A. (Schoeppner) Rudd & Garrett M. Rudd.

 Elijah worked at Kroger and occasionally did odd jobs to help his grandpa. While he seemed quiet and shy to most, those who knew him well would say that he had both a big heart and a big mouth. He was passionate about music and a natural wordsmith. He enjoyed changing the lyrics to songs to make us laugh and rapping with his friends. He was always singing as a child. Eli taught himself parkour at a young age and could often be found flipping off of sheds or over tables. He loved animals, had a natural talent in art, and really enjoyed spending time with his friends. He was a proud uncle, beloved brother, son, and grandson.

Along with his parents, Teresa Rudd and Garrett Rudd, Elijah is survived by his siblings, Jaiden (Donovan Smiley) Rudd, Isaac Rudd, and Ella Rudd; niece, Esme Smiley; grandparents, Albert Schoeppner, Joyce Murphy, and Brenda (Paul) Schroeder; aunts, Sharon (Ron) Collins, and Barbi Schoeppner; uncles, Brad (Jamie) Schroeder, Bryan Schroeder, and Gabe (Jesaka) Rudd; great-grandparents, Dorothy Schoeppner, and Beverly Foster; and many cousins.

A memorial service celebrating Elijah’s life will be held at 5 pm, Friday, February 6, 2026, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home, 1315 W. Lincoln Rd. Kokomo, with Pastors Shawn Anderson, and Adam Novinger officiating. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 3 pm until the time of the service at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Valley of Grace in Kokomo, PO Box 177, Kokomo, IN 46903 or valleyofgrace.life. Messages of condolence may be made at www.shirleyandstout.com.

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