RUDOLPH ROLAND AIKENS, JR.

In Loving Memory of Rudolph Roland Aikens Jr.
June 3, 1954 – January 26, 2025
It is with profound sadness and loving remembrance that we announce the passing of Rudolph Roland Aikens Jr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and community servant, who departed this life on January 26, 2025. Rudolph, affectionately known as Butch, was born on June 3, 1954, to Edna M. (Pitts) Aikens and Rudolph R. Aikens Sr. in New Jersey. He shared a deep bond with his brother, Gregory “Mickey” Aikens, all of whom predeceased him. He grew up and was baptized at a young age in Morning Star Baptist Church. In 1999, he joined Shiloh Baptist Church, where he remained a dedicated member until his passing. On August 2, 1975, Rudolph married the love of his life, Marlene Lorraine Jones. Together, they built a loving home, raising their son, Rudolph Roland Aikens III, who, along with his wife Leslie, gave him the greatest joy of his later years—his grandchildren, Rudolph R. Aikens IV and Leeya Lorraine Mae Aikens.
A proud graduate of Delsea High School, Rudolph was also a gifted athlete, earning the title of Wrestling District Champion, a feat that people still talk about to this day. He furthered his education at Camden County Institute of Technology, earning an associate degree. He pursued a career in law enforcement, attending the police academy at Seigert, NJ and serving as a Franklin Township Police Officer for several years. He then worked at Vineland Development Center (VDC) before transitioning to a career as a Principal Construction Inspector with the State of New Jersey Treasury Department, Division of Building and Construction, from which he retired in 2009. His dedication and hard work were recognized, as a testament to his impact and commitment. Rudolph’s heart for service extended far beyond his family. He and Marlene dedicated over 20 years to fostering special needs adults and later adolescent boys aged 8-16. Beyond his professional life, Rudolph was a pillar in his community. For over 35 years, he dedicated his time to the Newfield Terrace Community Center, serving as Trustee Board Vice President, overseeing facility maintenance, youth male mentoring, and participating as a food pantry volunteer. He was also an active member of the Newfield Terrace Seniors Group and volunteer for Salvation Army (Newfield Unit). Rudolph was adamant about education and invested deeply in his son’s education, ensuring he had every opportunity for success.

In his retirement, he dedicated himself to preparing for his grandchildren’s future education, believing that knowledge and learning were one of the greatest gifts he could give them. One of his lifelong and dearest friends, Gary Evans and family members Kathryn and Joesph La Cavera faithfully checked on him weekly until the very end. Gary often referred to Rudolph as his “big brother,” a testament to the strength of their bond. Known for his warmth, wisdom, and signature sayings, “Best investment I ever made,” and “Let me tell you something,” Rudolph was a man of great integrity. He lived a life defined by love, dedication, and service, leaving a lasting mark on all who knew him. He may have been Rudy, Roland or
Butchie to you, but he cherished the title of Pop Pop.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife Marlene, his son Rudolph III (Leslie), grandchildren: Little Rudy IV and Leeya, his father-in-law Robert Jones Sr., his sister-in-laws Robin Holmes and Sheila Aikens, his brother-in-law Robert Jones Jr., niece and nephews Gregory, Melvin, Maya, Edna, Marquita, Jaxson; Aunts Janice Jones and Ruth A. Aikens and extended family, Christopher and Caleah. His legacy of love and service will continue to shine through those that knew him best and he will be deeply missed but forever cherished in our hearts.

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