Rudolph "Rudy" Chester Abbott, 80 of Bedford, passed away Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at his residence. He was born on September 10, 1943 a son of the late Chester Hawthorne Abbott and Elaine Falls Abbott. He was also preceded in death by a son, Larry Wayne Abbott and a brother, Carroll Abbott.

Rudy was retired from the Thomasville Furniture as an electrician at the age of 65 and was also retired from Rubatex Corporation having worked in maintenance for 10 years. He was a part-time mechanic and was an avid Harley Davidson rider and a U. S. Army veteran. He liked to travel, loved going to the beach and visits to Golden Corral in Lynchburg. He also enjoyed spending time with his grandkids.

He is survived by his wife, Carol Payne Abbott; his daughter, Melissa Mayhew & her husband, Jody; his grandchildren, Julianna & Austin Mayhew; sister-in-law, Cathy Abbott as well as other family members and friends.

The family would like to thank their church family at Calvary Baptist Church for the many thoughts and prayers.

The family will receive friends beginning at 1 PM on Monday, February 5, 2024 at Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford and a funeral service will follow at 2 PM in the chapel with Pastor John Hester and Pastor Ray Lyons officiating. Interment will follow in Virginia Memorial Park.

Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.