A prominent figure in Dallas’ culinary scene has died. Rudolph “Rudy” Edwards, the founder and namesake of the former Rudy’s Chicken, passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 29, his family announced. He was 82.
“Thank you for all the prayers, love, and concerns during this difficult time,” the Edwards family wrote on social media Thursday.
“Throughout this time, please continue to keep our family in your prayers. He was truly a legend and will be deeply missed. Rest in Peace, Grandpa, aka Mr. Rudy’s.”
Rudy opened his namesake restaurant in the early 1990s in South Dallas’ Oak Cliff neighborhood. The walk-up and drive-thru restaurant drew visits from athletes and was even mentioned in songs. After 30 years in business, Rudy’s Chicken announced it would close in February, The Dallas Morning News reported. Hundreds reportedly lined up at the restaurant on the final day of service.
According to WFAA, an employee reportedly said at the time that the closure was due to Rudy being in poor health.
In September, Rudy’s children and grandchildren announced a new venture, Spain’s Family Chicken. It would carry on the “family tradition, work ethic and Rudy’s way.” Currently, Spain’s is accepting catering orders.
News of Rudy’s death drew much mourning on social media.
“Thank you for blessing us all these years with that bad xx chicken. Whole chicken. 4pc wing extra seasoning . We posted up on the steps waiting plenty of days,” one commenter wrote.
Chron has reached out to Edwards’ family for additional comment.
Dining and Cooking