Vivian Howard Rude

Vivian Howard Rude, a remarkable soul who brightened the lives of everyone she encountered, passed away on September 17, 2025, in Woodland Hills, California. Born on July 20, 1944, in Rahway, New Jersey, Vivian was raised in nearby Clark, where she developed a deep love for music and the arts from an early age.

Her musical journey began with piano and flute lessons, culminating in her graduation from the Manhattan Conservatory of Music in 1966. Music was not just a passion for Vivian; it was the very essence of her being, a means through which she expressed love, joy, and connection. She married Ronald Howard, and together they embarked on a life filled with music and creativity. In 1966 they moved south, to Miami Beach, where Vivian performed piano and serenaded audiences with standards and show tunes. Eventually, they moved to the San Fernando Valley, where Vivian embraced domestic life while continuing her singing, focusing on family and the culinary arts, where she truly shone.

Vivian's life took many turns; as her first marriage came to an end, she faced the challenges of single motherhood with grace as she raised her two children, Ronald Brandon Howard and Laura Renee Howard. Finding solace in her faith, she returned to her spiritual roots at the Church on the Way in Van Nuys, where she discovered a renewed sense of community and purpose. Her marriage to Budd Rude in 1982 marked a new chapter in her life, enriched by the birth of her son, Christopher Arthur Rude, in March 1985.

Vivian's commitment to music and faith intertwined beautifully. She became a vibrant part of her church, leading praise and worship songs for meetings of church leaders. In addition she started nurturing young talent by teaching piano at her home. Her leadership roles within the Music Teachers Association of California and her position as the accompanist, later director, of the Valley Park Baptist Church traditional choir showcased her dedication to both her craft and her community. Vivian brought the joy of music into the lives of many, teaching, directing choirs and leading special events that celebrated the fun and beauty of song.

In addition to her musical contributions, as she continued to study her Bible, her strong desire to serve others led her to participate in women’s gatherings, lead Bible studies on Zoom, start a vibrant prayer ministry with others, and champion the Valley Park Scholarship program.

Vivian devoted herself to raising her grandsons, Jayden and Jessy Kehn, with Budd in a home infused with laughter and love. She cherished her new garden, which she lovingly tended, and actively participated in the Southern California Garden Club, finding joy in the beauty of nature.

Vivian was a passionate individual, engaging in activities that brought her happiness. She loved to travel, ski, play tennis, and enjoy the shoreline, whether body boarding at her cherished beach or hiking expansive trails. Her brother Francis aptly described her spirit best: Vivian lived life to the fullest, embracing each moment with enthusiasm and grace.

Though her parents, Francis and Mary Burbage, have passed, Vivian's legacy and influence live on through her beloved family. She is survived by her husband, Budd Rude; her brothers, Francis and James Burbage; half-sisters, Lucile Scislowicz and Cecilia Kania; her sons, Ronald Brandon Howard and Christopher Arthur Rude; daughters-in-law, Sarah Rude and Karina Queirolo-Spiers; and her cherished grandchildren, Jayden Kehn, Jessy Kehn, and Aiden Howard.

A Celebration of Life in honor of Vivian will be held on November 8, 2025, at 2:00 PM, at the Valley Park Baptist Church in Los Angeles. As family and friends gather to celebrate her lasting impact and the joy she brought to all, they will undoubtedly remember her kindheartedness, passion for music, and loving spirit that will continue to inspire everyone who had the privilege to know her.