BENTON — James “John” Rudd, age 90, of Benton, Kentucky, passed away Thursday, January 24, 2013, at 12:45 a.m. at Western Baptist Hospital in Paducah, Kentucky.

Born Friday, January 27, 1922, in Benton, Kentucky, he was the son of the late Yancy Washington Rudd and the late Pearl (Canup) Rudd. He was the husband of the late Josephine (Starks) Rudd, of 69 years.

He was a Harness Horseman and member of the U.S. Trotting Association where he was an owner, trainer, and driver. He honorably served his country during World War II in the United States Navy. Mr. Rudd was a retired supervisor for Mid Continent Coal and Coke in Dawson Springs, Ky., as well as a brick mason by trade. He was a member of Union Hill Church of Christ.

Surviving are one son, James Timothy “Tim” Rudd (Shelley) of Benton, Ky.; one daughter, Myrna Odom of Benton, Ky.; sisters, Rachel Siress of Benton, Ky., Pauline Siress of Hardin, Ky., Ruby Lovett of Mayfield, Ky., and Wanda Little of Benton, Ky.

Grandchildren: Connie Pace, Terry Odom (Rosie), Jennifer Simon (Eddie), Todd Odom (Julie), Heather Wiles (Travis), Toni Gamble (Rustin); great-grandchildren: Tassie Pace (Joey), Justin Odom (Taylor), Trevor Pace, William Odom (Lisa), Tanner Simon, Kayla Simon, Kelsey Rundles, Lonnie Odom, Madison Gamble, Levi Wiles; and great-great-grandchildren: Emerson Odom, Gavin Holder, and Adeline Odom.

He was preceded in death by two brothers, R.V. Rudd and Henry Sherman “Bill” Rudd; sisters, Edith Darnall, Emma Nell Rudd; and son-in-law, Jimmy Odom.

Funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 26, 2013, at 1 p.m. at Collier Funeral Chapel with Tim Rudd, Rev. James Stom, and Josh Herndon officiating. Interment with military honors will follow in Edwards Cemetery, Benton, Ky.

Visitation will be held between the hours of 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Friday, January 25, 2013, at the Collier Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Edwards Cemetery Fund, c/o Leslie Groves, 453 Hunter Road, Benton, KY 42025.