Sheldon Leo Ruddle, 81, of Franklin passed away Oct. 8, 2026, at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown.
He was born on July 2, 1945, in Ruddle, the son of the late Alvin Moore and Ethel Marie (Hartman) Ruddle.
Mr. Ruddle was a fun-loving man with a big heart, a loving spirit, and a playful sense of humor. He loved to joke and tease, and that warmth and lightheartedness brought him joy.
During his working years, he worked for Neilsen Construction and several sawmills, including Western Fence, Mullenax, Sisler and Kessel Lumber. He loved to saw wood and mow, and he took pleasure in staying busy.
He was also known on the CB radio by the handle “Shotgun,” a detail that will bring a smile to those who knew him in that part of his life.
He found happiness in familiar comforts, simple things and quiet moments. He loved sitting in his chair, watching the deer and the cats. These were the kinds of moments that suited him well and reflected the personality so many appreciated — easygoing, loving, and full of heart.
On July 7, 1968, he married Angeleta Mae “Ann” (Simmons) Ruddle, who survives.
In addition to his wife, he leaves behind to cherish his memory two sons, Roy Ruddle (Lisa) and John DePue (April), all of Franklin; a sister, Josephine Hedrick (Dorman) of Petersburg; a brother, James Ruddle (Sue) of Franklin; six grandchildren, Samuel Ruddle (Savanna), Adam Ruddle (Glenna), Alexis, Bryttian, (Katie) and Gabby DePue and Sabrina Mallow; and four great-grandchildren, Lucas, Mason, Mavis and Kaysen.
He was also preceded in death by his siblings, Gerald Ruddle and Violet Thompson.
Funeral services were held Wednesday in the chapel of the Basagic Funeral Home in Franklin with Pastor Mike Lambert officiating. Interment was at Ruddle Cemetery in Franklin.
Memorials may be made to help with funeral expenses to “the family,” c/o Basagic Funeral Home, P.O. Box 215, Franklin, WV 26807.
Memories and words of comfort may be left at www.basagic.com or on Facebook at Basagic Funeral Home.
