Larry Dudley

Larry Neal Dudley, 80, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2023, in Abilene, Texas. He was born on November 5, 1943, in Merkel, Texas. Larry, also known as Peepaw, was a loving husband, father, and grandfather who cherished spending time with his family, especially his grandkids. Once he became a Peepaw, he could always be found capturing every moment at their many sporting events.

Larry is survived by his devoted wife of 58 plus years, Paula Dudley, of Merkel; his daughter, Michele Proctor, and her husband, Bryan, of Merkel; his grandson, Blake Proctor, and his wife, Claire, of Abilene; his granddaughter, Bailey Proctor of Merkel; his sister, Janie Sharpe of Abilene; his brother-in-law, Allan Arnwine, and his wife, Genia, of Roby; his brother-in-law, Greg Arnwine of Abilene; his sister-in- law, Susan Holland, and her husband, Sam, of Rockwall; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Quannah and Boots Dudley; his sister, Sharon Conlin; and his brother, Joe Dudley.

Larry graduated from Merkel High School in 1962 and completed his education at McMurry, graduating in August 1970. He proudly served in the Naval Reserve for six years from 1964 to 1970, with two of those years being active duty during the Vietnam War. Larry served on the naval destroyer USS Mullany as a radioman. In 1970, he began his career with the State of Texas, where he worked for 31 years until his retirement in 2001, serving in Vernon, Amarillo, and Abilene. He retired as a supervisor with Child Protective Services.

A graveside service to honor Larry’s life will be held at Rose Hill Cemetery in Merkel on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. The service will be conducted by Starbucks Funeral Home of Merkel. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hendrick Hospice Care at Donate | Hendrick Health or Wounded Warrior Program at Donate to the USO · United Service Organizations in memory of Larry Dudley. He will be remembered for his love for his family, unwavering dedication to his country, and remarkable selfless public service career. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

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