Max Randall Rutledge, age 76, passed away on December 13, 2025, in Dallas, Texas.

Randy was born on September 26, 1949, and grew up in Mount Vernon, Texas, where he lived in town, rode his pony around like it was the most natural thing in the world, and spent long days working on his parents' ranch—recognized by the State of Texas as a continuously operating cattle ranch for more than 100 years. Determined to be big enough to play football, Randy famously drank milkshakes to put on weight, a plan that worked and earned him All-District honors. His lifelong sweet tooth—for Oreos and chocolate of any kind—was a tradition he happily maintained well beyond high school.

He was later certified as a member of a First Family of Texas, recognizing his lineage dating back to the days of the Republic of Texas. He earned a Bachelor of Science from the University of North Texas, a Master of Science in Finance from SMU, and was a Certified Public Accountant. Randy built a career doing work he loved and was proud of, known for his intelligence, steadiness, and integrity.

Randy spent years playing tennis and waterskiing with his kids and those closest to him. An avid reader and capable DIYer, he was calm, thoughtful, and deeply supportive of those he loved. Above all, he was devoted to his wife, Cheryl, with whom he shared 21 years of marriage and a full life together, rich with family, lifelong friends, dogs he adored, and an ever-present stash of sweets.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Max and Joy Rutledge. Randy is survived by his wife, Cheryl Rutledge; his sibling, Jeffery Rutledge; his children and step-children, Kim Rutledge and Lee Dykes, Rusty and Mesha Rutledge, Paige and Edson Miranda, Cameron Hudson, Clark Hudson and Cara Hudson; his seven grandchildren, Maitland, Max, and Claire Rutledge, Caroline Williams, Anne Teague Dykes, and Emma and Adeline Miranda and one great granddaughter, Micah Roper.

Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Breakthrough T1D.

Randy will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.