Rudolph H. McCallop, Jr. , known affectionately as Rudi or Sonny, was born on May 18, 1954, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Rudolph McCallop, Sr. and Bobbie Clayborn. He departed this life on December 20, 2025, at home. Rudi lived a life defined by strength, dedication, unwavering love for his family, and his many interests and hobbies.

From an early age, Rudi displayed qualities that would remain with him throughout his life: resilience, determination, and a strong sense of responsibility. He was educated in the Kansas City, Missouri School System and graduated from Southeast High School in 1972, where he formed lifelong friendships and developed values that guided him well into adulthood. After high school Rudi journeyed into the workforce where he acquired many skills and trades preparing him for a life rooted in hard work and service.

Rudi was a dedicated professional who took great pride in his work. Throughout his career, he was employed with various companies across the metro area, serving in roles that included driver, assembly worker, truck builder, sales associate, and building maintenance. He was known for his reliability, strong work ethic, and willingness to support those around him. Rudi believed deeply in providing for his family and leading by example.

Family was at the center of Rudi's life. He was a loving and devoted partner, son, father, uncle and he especially took pride in being a grandfather. He was also a father figure known as "Pops" to many. Rudi valued time spent with family and made it a priority to show up for those he loved. He had a steady presence that brought comfort, guidance, and reassurance. Whether through conversation, action, or quiet support, Rudi made those around him feel seen and cared for.

Rudi also found joy in detailing cars, and proudly supported his nephews, nieces, and grandchildren at their extracurricular activities, and faithfully cheered on his beloved Kansas City Chiefs. He valued life's simple pleasures and was widely known for his wisdom, generosity, and quiet strength. Those who knew Rudi will remember his genuine ability to connect with others and the lasting, meaningful relationships he cultivated throughout his life.

Rudi was preceded in death by both maternal and paternal grandparents, his stepfather, Woodrow Clayborn; ex-wife, Donna (Cato) McCallop; uncle, Andy Williams; and aunt, Janet Williams.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving significant other of over 40 years, Sydney Perkins; his sons, Adrian Cato-McCallop, Christian Perkins (Amina), Randolph McCallop, and Lawrence Perkins (Keisha); seven grandchildren, Oliver Cato-West, Parker Cato-McCallop, Daniel Lockett, Lucie Jane Black, Taryn Lockett, Gracen Perkins, and the last one of the bunch, Lawrence Perkins Jr.; his parents, Rudolph McCallop Sr. (Leatrice) and Bobbie Clayborn; his aunt, Esther Lee Gilbert; his sister-in-love, Betty Hatter; niece, Ebony Tolbert (Brian); two great nieces, Alexis and Briana Tolbert; great nephew, Leland Perkins-Tolbert; many loving cousins including Robert Mitchell, Harrison McCallop, Jr., and Craig Watson; his longtime best friend, Clifton Martin with whom he shared decades of friendship and memories; and a host of family and friends.

Each of them will carry forward his legacy through the lessons he shared, the love he gave, and the values he lived by. Though Rudi is no longer with us physically, his spirit remains present in the hearts of all who loved him. His life serves as a reminder of the importance of family, perseverance, and compassion. His memory will continue to live on through stories, traditions, and the love that binds his family together.

Rudolph H. McCallop, Jr. will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever honored.

Thoughtful care and services provided by E. S. Eley & Sons Funeral Chapel, Inc.