Way back in 1938, Rudolph and Mary Medellin received their Christmas present six days early, with the birth of Rudolph Escott Medellin on December 19. Their extravagant love for Rudy was customary for the firstborn son in a devoutly Catholic family. Mary had emigrated from Mexico, and met Rudolph in San Antonio Texas. The Medellin family moved from San Antonio to Shreveport, where Rudy was born and raised. He attended Fair Park High School where he played multiple sports, earning a baseball scholarship to Northwestern State University. Soon after graduation, he joined the National Guard (as did many patriotic American boys who were teenagers during and after the Korean War) and also entered the working world. Rudy was a committed and dedicated worker, enjoying several career paths (even owning his own business for many years) before gaining employment at Morris & Dickson, a pharmaceutical wholesale company in Shreveport. Rudy enjoyed working at that family business, retiring from there at the age of 78, which in itself is a reminder of the hard-working mindset of his generation.

Rudy loved many things: the Dallas Cowboys, the LSU Tigers, cruising the lake on their Just-A-Medellin pontoon boat, shooting pool, listening to blues music, and talking with friends at the various watering holes. Most of all, Rudy adored his family, whether they be 'family' due to bloodline or by marriage. Strangers soon became friends: it was not uncommon to arrive at the Medellin home for a holiday event, only to find a complete stranger sitting at the table. Rudy would say "he didn't have anywhere else to go" so the invitation was extended. Several long-term friendships were begun that way.

Rudy died on September 17, 2020 due to complications of a surgical procedure, at the age of 81. Many people carry fond memories of their relationships with Rudy, most notably his wife of 25 years, Marcia Dawson Medellin, his son Richard Medellin, his daughter Vicki Sullivan (Eric), and his stepson Brant Miller (Tami).  Rudy had five granddaughters: Jennifer Medellin, Lindsey Cole, Kelsi Mitchell (Kyle), Kasey Standridge, and Sarah Glasgow, and five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two younger sisters, Josephine Medellin and Rosita Babb.

Although Rudy wasn't a regular attender at church services, he was deeply religious and a Christian. There is no doubt within his family that his name was found enrolled in the Book Of Life, and his Savior has welcomed him to eternal glory, where he has now reunited with his parents and those who've gone on before him. Rudy's earthly body has been cremated, and in private services his family will spread the ashes in various places known and loved by him.

A celebration of his life will be held from 2-4 pm Saturday, October 3, 2020 at one of his favorite hangouts:  the American Legion Hall, 5315 South Lakeshore Drive in Shreveport. The event will be mostly informal (Rudy wasn't overly fond of stuffy ceremonies), and visitors will have the opportunity to speak about their favorite memories with him. Don't get all dressed up, rather come in attire that's appropriate for an afternoon of relaxation and fun. If your customary expression is to send flowers, instead please consider making a donation to the Lowe-McFarlane Post 14 of the American Legion, which continues to support those American veterans like Rudy who served our great nation.

The family appreciates the love and compassion shown by the medical team in the Neurocritical Care Unit at LSU-Ochsner Hospital, as well as the Carpenter House. The family thanks you for your outpouring of love and support, and craves your continued prayers and words of encouragement.