Diana Rudolph, age 79, of Lewisville, Texas, passed away on April 10, 2025. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and tireless animal advocate, Diana leaves behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, and unwavering love for the creatures who had no voice but found one through her.

Born on September 4, 1945, in Braunschweig, Germany, Diana was the beloved daughter of Erika and Kurt Weidemann. She moved to the United States and built a beautiful life alongside her husband of 62 years, Nick Rudolph. Together, they raised their son, Michael Rudolph, and welcomed into their family a daughter-in-law, Lorie Rudolph. Diana was a proud and loving grandmother to Scott and Erika.

Animals were Diana's life's work and passion. As the Chief Operating Officer and the heart behind Stars (Save the Animals Rescue Society, Inc.), she personally rescued, bathed, and vetted many dogs, ensuring that they moved through the foster care system and into loving homes. For over 26 years, she hosted twice monthly Adopt-A-Pet events in Lewisville and is credited with rescuing and rehoming over 11,000 shelter dogs. Her legacy continues through her last two rescue companions, Jovi and Phoebe, who brought her joy and comfort in her final years.

Known for her sharp wit and enduring patience—especially with her beloved husband Nick—Diana's sense of humor and strength touched everyone who knew her. She lived in various places including New Jersey, Philadelphia, Toledo, Omaha, and finally, Dallas. Though she battled heart issues later in life, Diana defied medical expectations, outliving her prognosis by 17 years thanks to her determination and daily mall walks.
Diana is survived by her husband Nick; son Michael; daughter-in-law Lorie; grandchildren Scott (and wife Randa Rudolph) and Erika (and husband Andy Perez). She was preceded in death by her parents, Erika and Kurt.

A visitation and memorial service will be held on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Mulkey Mason Funeral Home in Lewisville, TX. At Diana's request, the service will be casual, with no officiant. Interment will follow at Old Hall Cemetery in Lewisville, TX. Pallbearers include Scott Rudolph, Andy Perez, Randy Sigler, and Chris Sigler.

In lieu of flowers, Diana's family asks that you honor her memory by adopting and supporting your local animal shelters. Every animal deserves a second chance—and Diana made sure thousands received just that.