Dorothy Jean “Pat” Rudd, a celebrated World War II Navy veteran who was among the first women to serve at Pearl Harbor and later became a cherished community pillar, has died at the age of 104. Her passing on Tuesday, just a month after her landmark birthday, was confirmed by friends and family who are now paying tribute to her extraordinary life.
- Who: Pat Rudd, decorated World War II U.S. Navy Veteran.
- Age: 104 years old.
- Her Legacy: A pioneering member of the WAVES program who served at Pearl Harbor just three years after the attack.
- Community Impact: A beloved figure in St. Cloud, Florida, known for her big heart and tireless presence at veterans events.
A Pioneering Legacy of Service
Pat Rudd’s service to her country was nothing short of historic. During the early days of World War II, she joined the newly formed WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service) program. In a groundbreaking move for the era, she was part of one of the first groups of WAVES deployed to Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, in 1944, which was then an active overseas war zone. Her duties included managing the base’s Education Office and teaching literacy courses to sailors, playing a vital role in the restoration and operational efforts following the devastating 1941 attack.
“I went back to my platoon and told them I wanted to sign up right then to be on the off-shore mission,” Rudd told the News-Gazette in a 2017 interview, highlighting her determination.
Her top achievements include her trailblazing service in the U.S. Navy, her critical support role at Pearl Harbor, and her lifelong dedication to honoring fellow military members at countless events for the Museum of Military History.
Tributes and Remembrance
News of her passing prompted an immediate outpouring of love and respect on social media, with community leaders and friends sharing their fondest memories. State Representative Paula Stark remembered her as an irreplaceable part of the community’s history.
“She is definitely part of our history and we will sorely miss her and her personality and her big heart,” Stark said. “It’s been such an honor and a privilege to know her.”
After the war, Rudd built a full life with her husband of 75 years, Gerald, and became a fixture in her local community, earning the title of Queen of the St. Cloud Senior Center in 2017. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her incredible legacy of service, resilience, and community spirit will not be forgotten.
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