John “Gene” Dudley
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John “Gene” Dudley passed away peacefully on August 15, 2023, at his residence in Lawrence, KS. He requested no formal services.
Gene was born on August 9, 1941, in Jefferson City, MO, the son of John and Alice (Wilson) Dudley. Most of his early years were spent in Russellville, MO. After attending Lincoln University, he graduated from Southwest Missouri State in Springfield.
He married Toni New on June 25, 1977, in LaCrosse, WI. She survives at home.
Other survivors include his children, Marcus Chris Dudley and wife Dawn, Joyele Irons, Megan Mendez, grandchildren, Darik, Madison, Jakob, V, Koda, and Owen. He loved all of them unconditionally.
Gene was preceded in death by his parents, and his first wife JoDona.
Although he faced many health challenges over the last several years, he never lost his sense of humor and was all too willing to share his keen observations on current events as well as lessons from our past. He was so pleased that two of his submissions appeared in the newspaper cartoon, Pluggers.
He was fortunate to have a long-time group of friends who he considered to be the siblings he never had.
A special thank you to Dr. Eric Huerter and his staff for the excellent guidance and care he received. In addition, the many caregivers at Lawrence Memorial and VNA helped him in so many ways.
A true celebration of life will be held in the fall.
Memorial contributions may be made in Gene’s name to VNA Hospice or LMH Health Foundation and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.
I can only imagine the whole left in your heart and life with John’s passing, I know it has left one in mine. John was always quick with a joke and he made the Prudential office a fun place to work. I am grateful you brought him to our luncheon get togethers the last couple of years. Prayers for the whole family. Joe & JoEtta Bellinger
Toni, Chris, Joyele, & Megan, we are so sorry to hear of John’s passing. He will be missed by many. I always enjoyed his sense of humor. The entire Trotter family send our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Toni and Family,
So many wonderful memories over the years with you and John. We managed to keep the friendship going for over 40 years despite our wondering lifestyle. We had a lot of laughs. We look forward to offering our condolences in person later this month. Sincere sympathy. With love, Mike &Teri
So sorry for the loss of John. You are in my thoughts an prayers Toni. Pam, jay and Brett
Toni,
Sorry to learn of John’s death. (I never called him Gene.)
Hope your sense of loss is overpowered by all the good memories. Wisconsin in 1977 must seem like just yesterday — and yet so very long ago.
We need to to get the Class of 86 together again.
Toni,
It is truly a sad day to know that John will no longer be the
person to keep the music playing as he taps along on his spoons.
He was a genuine friend that will be missed by all.
Toni
So sorry for the loss of John; you are in our thoughts.