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Irene Rudnick Obituary

Irene Krugman Rudnick
AIKEN - "A word fittingly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver." Proverbs 25:11
Irene Krugman Rudnick, of Aiken, South Carolina, died on February 2, 2019. Born in Columbia in 1929, Irene was the eldest child of Jean (Getter) and Jack Krugman. She was married to the late Harold Alan Rudnick of Aiken.
Irene was a graduate of Columbia High School where she was valedictorian. She earned her bachelor's degree cum laude from the University of South Carolina, where she was active in theatrical productions, president of Alpha Kappa Gamma women's leadership society, president of Hypation Literary Society, YWCA Cabinet, Hillel, president of Pi Kappa Delta, manager of the debate team, winner of the Hemphill Award for Oratory, member of Alpha Psi Omega, and secretary of the International Relations Club. She then attended the University of South Carolina School of Law, where she was one of the few women attending law school at the time. While in law school, Irene was a member of the Honor Council, chairwoman of the program committee of the law federation, and a member of the editorial staff of the South Carolina Law Quarterly. After graduating law school, Irene opened her law practice and soon moved to Aiken after marrying Harold. She practiced law and had two children.
As a life member of the American Association of University Women, Irene once served as president where she became involved in a community campaign to offer more educational opportunities for area youth. She helped organize fundraising receptions, letter writing campaigns, and other efforts to increase awareness for the creation of USC Aiken. Once USC Aiken became a reality, she began teaching there in 1961 and after 50 years, she was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Education. Irene taught legal classes at USC Aiken for 57 years until December 2018. She relished being a teacher and a lawyer and enjoyed instilling in her students a desire to learn about the law and succeed in life. For a period of time, she also taught at Warrenville Elementary while simultaneously practicing law. In 1983, her son Morris began practicing law with her, and they practiced law together until only a few weeks ago.
Irene was a trailblazer for women when entering politics was difficult for them. She began her political career as Superintendent of Education for Aiken County. In 1972, she was elected to the S.C. House of Representatives from District 81 in Aiken where she served for 14 years. Irene prided herself on working tirelessly on behalf of her constituents and always made herself "available, accountable, and responsive" to their needs. As an elected public official, she always considered herself a servant of the people. Nothing they requested was too small for her attention. A champion for her community, Irene's office was in her husband's furniture store where a large sign read, "Welcome, Come On In." Devoted and determined, Irene fought for many issues including educational and legal reform, lower utility rates, the environment, and highway safety.
She was a steadfast advocate for what is right and just and received numerous awards and accolades for her professional and philanthropic efforts. Some of them included being named the Citizen of the Year for Aiken County, the S.C. Woman of Achievement Legislative Award, and the Aiken County Chamber of Commerce Woman of the Year. She also received awards for her legislation helping disabled veterans, the handicapped, and those with developmental disabilities. Irene received the Friend of Education Award, an award from the National Order of Women Legislators, and she was a finalist for the John F. Kennedy
Profiles in Courage Award. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, the Order of the Eastern Star, and Alpha Delta Kappa, an International Honorary Organization for Women Educators.
Passionate about her religion, she served as President of Adas Yeshurun Synagogue for decades and also served as President of the Hadassah Sisterhood. Irene was a bitzuist, a doer: sweeping the synagogue's steps, polishing its silver, cooking and cleaning for events, and hosting community and interfaith groups. She taught Sunday School starting as a teenager and continuing until late in life.
Irenic means tending to promote peace or reconciliation which aptly describes Irene. She fully embraced life and is remembered for her infinite capacity to love, to share, to support, and to show unlimited acceptance and compassion. Without second thought, Irene put anyone ahead of herself. She valued beyond all things her close relationships with family and friends. Irene had a genuine interest in others and never met a stranger. With her trademark enthusiasm, she brought a constant smile and a sense of humor to any event or situation.
She is survived by her son, Morris (Veleta) Rudnick, daughter Helen (Mark) Rapoport; grandchildren Charles (Catherine) Rudnick, Laura Jean Rudnick (fiance;, Brandon Jones), Kathleen (Jeff) Tokar; and Whitney (Daniel) Weingarten, Jared Rapoport, and Joshua Rapoport; great-grandchildren Michael and Ashley Craven, and Winthrop Rudnick. She is also survived by her brother, Stanley Krugman and is predeceased by her sister, Dorothy Goldstein. Irene is also survived by nieces and nephews.
Those wishing to donate in her memory may contribute to the charity of their choice. Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, February 5 at 11 a.m. at the Sons of Israel Cemetery behind Bethany Cemetery at the corner of Hampton Avenue and Laurens Street in Aiken.
"All that I am or ever hope to be I owe to my angel mother." Abraham Lincoln.
The Historic George Funeral Home, 211 Park Ave. SW, Aiken, SC 29801 (803) 649-6234.
Expressions of sympathy for the Rudnick family may be left by visiting www.georgefuneralhome.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Aiken Standard and North Augusta Star from Feb. 3 to Feb. 4, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for Irene Rudnick

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Ginny Jackson-Pownell

January 28, 2025

To Morris and Veleta and families, "Miss Irene" was very special to me. She was my mom's best friend (Virginia Jackson), her attorney, my attorney, and my Business Law Professor at USC-Aiken, but she also was like a mother to me after mom died Sept. 12, 1998. Two days after Christmas that same year, I had to have Emergency Surgery and missing mom, she called to check on me. She helped me through 9/11 and also visited me in ICU after open heart surgery Dec. 7, 2007. I wanted you to know how special she was to me, and all of you have been in my thoughts and prayers throughout the tragedy of October 7th, and the unfortunate confusion that ensued. She enriched my life in so many ways, and I was so Blessed to have her in my life. May God Bless all of you forever. ~Psalms 27~

Ginny Jackson-Pownell

January 29, 2022

I was so happy to see her grandson Charles and his friend Duncan at the hospital when my nephew Frank was in ICU. Her kindness and generosity has continued throughout her family and it warmed my heart to see them at a tough time. She is so proud!

Mary Ann Rudnick Grice

January 28, 2021

Although it has been a year since her passing, I miss my Aunt Irene as if she passed away today. She became my mother figure after the death of my parents. I will miss our weekly telephone calls for the rest of my life.

Hollis Walker

January 28, 2021

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.

Virginia Jackson-Pownell

January 28, 2020

Mrs. Rudnick was such a giving and professional mentor to many. I miss her just as much now, as I did a year ago. She graciously came to visit with me when I was in ICU after open-heart surgery in 2007. My mother's best friend, and an angel to all that knew her. I had to see my Cardiologist not to long after she departed this life, and made a generous donation to The American Heart Association in honor of her memory. My prayers are still with her family.

Nancy Watts

February 9, 2019

Irene, what a gracious lady you were. I have wonderful memories of your smiling face and someone who was always willing to share your knowledge and zest for life. You will be missed. But yours was a life well lived

Charlie Law

February 8, 2019

So sorry to hear of your mother's death, Morris and Helen. She was one of those rare people who is extraordinarily accomplished and, at the same time, selfless. Just reading in these tributes of all the people she has encouraged -- blessed, really -- it makes me sad to think Aiken has lost her.

Earl ("Butch") McFerrin

February 7, 2019

My sister Holly & I send our deepest condolences to Irene's family. We didn't know Irene that well as we've both been gone from Aiken since our high school days in the '70s, but our late parents (Cecil & Jean McFerrin) were both dear friends & admirers of this fine lady who did much good for the Aiken community. They were both proud to have had Irene Rudnick as a friend.

Michael Taylor

February 7, 2019

A lovely lady, she was my 6th grade health teacher at Warrenville Elementary, when she began her political campaign.

Pam Sauber

February 7, 2019

My Aunt Irene was one of a kind - she cared so much about me and my family. She was a role model for me as a woman attorney, inspiring me to always represent my clients with integrity and kindness. I hope she and my mother, Dorothy (her younger sister) have found each other wherever they are, and are keeping a watchful eye over me.

Paul and Courtney Gregory

February 7, 2019

Irene will be greatly missed. We are so glad she lived such a full life and was able to serve honorably on behalf of the people of Aiken.

Helen Oswald

February 7, 2019

So sorry for your loss. She was one great woman who led the way for many women. So proud to have know her and to have worked for her. She loved her family. Worked tirelessly for her constituants. One wonderful, smart lady. She will be missed.

Annette Jones-Irvin

February 7, 2019

She never looked at color barriers. She was always willing to do whatever she could do to help others. I know for sure that the Angels are singing a new song for a new coming Angel. Family May God Bless and Keep You is my prayer.

Hope Parrish

February 7, 2019

With a truly sincere heartfelt of sympathy to the Rudnick family. Ms. Irene was a wonderful lady who will be missed by all. May God help heal this family at this time of deep sorrow. My condolences to all of you.

Patricia James

February 7, 2019

My deepest condolences on the passing of this very special lady. Irene was a trailblazer who contributed so much. We will not see her like again.

LH Miller

February 6, 2019

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Thomas Hagan

February 5, 2019

I was a House Page in the early 80s and Mrs. Rudnick was my favorite. Loved to hear her speak on the floor, as she commanded the attention of her follow representatives. Not all did:). Mostly I remember her great laugh and humor. A wonderful lady!!

Lucille Trowell

February 5, 2019

To The Rudnick Family, my thoughts and prayers are with your family. Wishing you hope in the midst of sorrow, comfort in the midst of pain. From Mattie Lucille Trowell and family.

Lucille Trowell

February 5, 2019

To the Rudnick family, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Wishing you hope in the midst of sorrow, comfort in the midst of pain. From Mattie Lucille Trowell and Family.

Raye Hope and Kevin White

February 4, 2019

Mrs. Rudnick will be truely missed especially when we teach lifeguarding classes at USCA. When she would come to do a workout in the pool, she always had a smile on her face and a kind word to say to us.

Ginny Jackson-Pownell

February 4, 2019

To Morris and Family,
I had been thinking of your mother in the last month or two, knowing that the AAUW Book Fair was going to be soon. "Miss Irene" was a dear friend and attorney for my mother, Virginia Jackson. She was also my Business Law professor at USCA, and took care of my mothers' final wishes when we found that she only had 3 weeks to 2 months to live. She was the first person I called upon her passing in Sept., 1998. It was a Saturday. On Sunday morning, Miss Irene was on her way to the Synagogue, but had stayed up cooking a whole ham for my family. That summed up how committed to people she was, whether they were a client, a student, a true friend or all of the above. Aiken was so lucky to have her. The last time I saw her was when I had open heart surgery in Dec., 2007. She came to visit me. To her family, you will be in my prayers in your time of need.

Tom Marchant

February 4, 2019

Irene was a tireless worker and was a devoted public servant. We served together for many years in the SC House of Representatives.

Safe passage, Irene.

Tom Marchant
State Representative (1972-1986)
Greenville

gerry janet gartung

February 4, 2019

to the heavens above the angels are sinnging only we connot hear yet when we meet again in our heavenly home . To morrris and family thanks for a life well lived...the GARTUNGS

Mary Bostick

February 4, 2019

Mrs Rudnick remains dear in my heart for working tirelessly with the SC State Library to secure desired legislation. Her upbeat attitude made her a pleasure to know. Friends and family will treasure memories of her.

ROLF A LEIBINGER

February 4, 2019

My dear Irene,
May you rest in peace after a long and accomplished life that had become such a struggle. I know that Morris will carry on your legacy, and my condolences go to him and his family.

The many beautifully handwritten notes to me attest to your extraordinary human being. Your wisdom and sense of humor drew me to your law office, and your sweet tooth made that easier! Even when it became physically difficult for you to make it to the pool at the university, you remained positive, enjoyed the swim, and showed concern for others. I am not the only one who admired your zest and spirit.

When we spoke on the phone over a week ago, you were only concerned about my upcoming surgery. Knowing now that it was the last time I heard your voice, makes me very sad. I lost a beloved friend, Aiken and South Carolina have lost a wise and most remarkable woman, an irreplaceable
citizen.

Rolf A. Leibinger
February 4, 2019

Sarah Barton

February 4, 2019

Sending love and prayers to Irene's family and friends. May the tenderness of God surround you in these days of grieving. She was quite a woman, and she will be greatly missed by many. She made our state proud, she made women proud, she made Aiken proud, and she made everyone proud to know her. My mother just adored her, as did everyone who crossed paths with her.

Harvey Key

February 4, 2019

To Morris and the Rudnick Familly,
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of you wonderful mother. I to was fortunate and blessed to have Mrs. Rudnick as a professor at USCA. Those were wonderful times. She was such a sweet person. She was a great inspiration for those of us that focused our careers toward Law. She will be truly missed. My continued prayers and condolences.

Byron England

February 4, 2019

Thoughts and prayers.

Henry and Allison Crawn

February 4, 2019

She could really make you smile. Her quick wit and interesting sense of humor will never be replaced. We will definitely miss her. Condolences to her family.

Dianne Parker

February 4, 2019

I'm so sorry to hear of her passing. She was so very special in so many ways. I so enjoyed her friendship and the time we worked within the Masonic lodge and Eastern Star projects. I will miss her until I get to see her again.

Marti Costantino

February 4, 2019

I have been fortunate to be able to count Irene as one of my special friends. She and I taught at USCA for many years. She and Harold were very supportive of my efforts when I ran the Etherredge Center. She always brought a smile and happiness wherever she went. I shall miss her.

February 4, 2019

Irene was one of the first people to befriend me when I moved to Aiken. She was unique and amazing in every way and will be missed. So thankful to have known her, even for a short time. Jody Duggan

Don Alexander

February 4, 2019

Morris and Helen,

I am so sorry to learn of the passing of your Mom. She was a wonderful lady and a tremendous asset to Aiken. I was fortunate enough to have her as a professor when I took Business Law at USCA. I loved her class and her teaching.She was a great inspiration to me.

God Bless you during this time of your loss.

You are in my prayers.

Mary Mack maiden name Robinson

February 3, 2019

I am so sorry for your loss. She always had time for my family. Thank you Ms. Irene. I miss you!

Hollis Walker

February 3, 2019

Lovely person you will be missed prayers to family

Bruce Cadotte

February 3, 2019

A wonderful lady, and one of the most gracious, friendly and hospitable people I've known. My sincrest condolences to Morris, Valeta, and he entire family.

Rachel Chris

February 3, 2019

I had the privilege of knowing Mrs. Rudnick in our Business Law Class at USCA. Her class was one of the best. I think I can speak on behalf of her students that her age did not stop her from being as sharp as a tack and keeping us on our toes. We made so many memories as well and learned so much from her. She loved her students even if she did want to cry when we were having trouble remembering a key vocab word. As well as always reminding us that she wanted her Oscar Mayer sausage and cheese omelet. It was a privilege to be in her class and get to experience what an amazing and funny person she was. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.

charles ferguson

February 3, 2019

My family knew Irene for 35 years or so,she was always Irene .She would fight her fight and stand tall for the common man.She probably deserves a memorial in Aiken.She was a trailblazer and one heck of a crazy lady
That is said with total respect and a laugh.My mother Jean loved to talk with Irene whenever they met or send a card for the Jewish holiday.Irene was always thankful for the small gesture and would call mom to say so.Mom was so shocked as she had talked to Irene a couple of days before her passing.Mom considered that a gift.I recall going to her Park Ave. office way back in the day and the humor she shared.She was always there,now she is gone.But her spirit will live on with every memory.Peaceful rest our dear lady.

Sammy McIntosh

February 3, 2019

Truly sorry for your loss Morris and Family. a loss to all of Aiken County. She wasn't simply happy and joyful, she was very intelligent in and out of the Court Room. A tremendous help to my parents over the years. She will be missed by so many'

February 3, 2019

I am so sorry for your loss, she was always a light in the community when ever I came home I would see her. May G-D bless you all.
Rahlene Rifkin Linder

Mary Ann Rudnick Grice

February 3, 2019

Aunt Irene was more than an aunt to me. After my parents passed away she stepped into their role for me ,and I considered her my mother. I will miss her wisdom, her wit, but mostly her love. My loss is heaven' s gain. Rest In Peace my dear Aunt Irene. I have a void that will never again be filled!

Minnie Chavous

February 3, 2019

The Rudnick family,
You have my deepest sympathy. May God comfort you during this time of sorrow.

Suzanne Hayes

February 3, 2019

I met Irene about 12 years ago. My husband was one of the many she called her boyfriend. At that time we were dating. We were in law school and he took me by there because he said I had to meet Ms. Irene. I am so glad he did. Since then we have been at several functions over the years and I can't say there wasn't a time she didn't put a smile on my face or have me laughing. She was a great woman and a woman with great knowledge and intelligence. I loved listening to her stories of her time at the Supreme Court or in the Legislature. You will be dearly missed by many. Sending prayers to her family.

Ilene Jackson

February 3, 2019

Haven't seen her since in moved back to Boston in 1978. Loved to see her in Schul. Condolences to the family

February 3, 2019

i am proud to Say i knew her . She will be missed . My heart goes out to her family ! I will sing for her my song of grief .

Tim Hahn

February 3, 2019

We will miss seeing her smiling face, and hearing her funny quips as she would come and go from the Aiken County Courthouse! She was always a pleasure to see and talk to. She was an amazing woman who still practiced law into her finals weeks with us on earth! We will always miss you Ms. Irene!!!

Marie Davidsohn

February 3, 2019

What's the tallest building in the world?
The library, because it has so many stories.

Ms. Irene shared jokes with us at the library when she came in to visit. She uplifted our spirits and always had a smiling face. She will be missed greatly.

Jay Cook

February 3, 2019

I am so sorry for your loss. I will miss her jokes that she told us every time she came to the courthouse. Also, how she would call all of the deputies at courthouse her boy friends. Truly an awesome lady.

Deno Verenes

February 3, 2019

I wish I could hear her endearing laugh again. She was a really, really good neighbor, teacher and friend. I will miss her.

February 3, 2019

We extend our deepest condolences to the family!

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