Rudolfo "Rudy" Gallegos

Master Sergeant Rudolfo “Rudy” Gallegos, age 76, passed away on the 8th day of May 2024, in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Rudy is survived by his wife of 54 years, Rhonda Gallegos, of Little Rock; his children Alondra and Philip Propes; Abran and Misty Gallegos; Alex and Charlotte Gallegos and his grandchildren Ashlynn, Alexis, Alexander (Windsor), Madeline, and Brayden, a great grandchild, Camilla, and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by two sisters, Tillie and Delia. He is preceded in death by his parents Baldomero and Esther Gallegos, of Vanderbilt, Texas; and his brother Baldomero, of Bay City, Texas.

Rudy was born on the 7 th Day of January 1948 in Victoria Texas, to parents Baldermero Gallegos and Esther Zarate. He graduated from Industrial High School in 1967. After graduation from high school, he enlisted in the United States Air Force which led to him meeting Rhonda and the family that will forever love and cherish him. Rudy was very proud of the 25 years he served his country.

Rudy was a great family man, loving father, and adoring grandfather and great grandfather. He shall always be affectionately known as Bumpa to those who knew him best. Rudy was an active man who instilled a tremendous work ethic in his family. He always received satisfaction from helping others. His love also manifested itself in wood-working. He created many custom pieces for those he cared about. His family and friends will always remember him as a high- spirited man with a joke at the ready. He was a giver of his time, his wisdom, and his optimism. He would always remind his kids when they were in need, “You are a good person, I always trust you to make the right decision, I will support you in any way I can, and I love you.”

Here are a few “Rudy-isms” to remember him by:
● “Life is good”
● “It’s break time”
● “Well otay then” = OK
● “You old horse you”
● “How’s it going, partner?”
● “Do you want to watch an old war movie?”
● “What do you say, kiddo?”
● “Where’s my Snickers?”
● Upon driving by yet to be chopped-up wood: “Look at all that money on the ground”
● And most importantly, upon completion of a prayer or the “Happy Birthday” Song: Yelling “Play
Ball!”

A Memorial and Visitation Service will be held from 11:30AM-12:30PM on 28th of May 2024, at Smith Family Funeral Home, 1921 Main Street North Little Rock, AR. Honors and Burial will follow the service at 1:00 PM at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery at 1501 West Maryland Avenue, North Little Rock, AR. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Rudy’s life. The family would like to thank everyone for their outpouring of love and support.