Sheldon Leo Ruddle, age 81, of Franklin, WV, passed away on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown, WV. He was born on July 2, 1945, in Ruddle, WV, the son of the late Alvin Moore and Ethel Marie (Hartman) Ruddle. On July 7, 1968, Sheldon married Angeleta Mae “Ann” (Simmons) Ruddle, who survives in Franklin, WV.

Sheldon 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, Sheldon 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.

Sheldon 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.

In addition to his wife, Sheldon leaves behind to cherish his memory: 2 sons, Roy Ruddle (Lisa) and John DePue (April), both of Franklin, WV; sister, Josephine Hedrick (Dorman) of Petersburg, WV; a brother, James Ruddle (Sue) of Franklin, WV; 6 grandchildren, Samual Ruddle (Savanna), Adam Ruddle (Glenna), Alexis, Bryttian, (Katie), Gabby DePue and Sabrina Mallow; and 4 great-grandchildren, Lucas, Mason  Mavis. And Kaysen  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by: his siblings, Gerald Ruddle, and Violet Thompson.

Sheldon's family will receive friends on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM at the Basagic Funeral Home in Franklin, WV.  Funeral services will follow at 1:00 PM in the funeral home chapel, with Pastor Mike Lambert officiating.  Interment will be in Ruddle Cemetery, Franklin, WV.  Memorials may be made in memory of Sheldon and to help with funeral expenses to “the family”, c/o Basagic Funeral Home, POB 215, Franklin, WV 26807. Memories and words of comfort may be left at www.basagic.com or on Facebook at Basagic Funeral Home.