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Alfred Traylor DUDLEY
Alfred Traylor DUDLEY
Obituary
Guest Book
Alfred DUDLEY Obituary
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Mark Kettner
March 20, 2025
Mr. Dudley was my teacher but far more important than that HE WAS MY FRIEND and Mentor about how to act straighten up and be the best person you can be . I spent many days with him for 3 years in the bookstore , helping students and learning to play chess . Many years after I graduated from Hermitage , I would go back and see him just to visit and let him see I was using all he had taught me regarding life . So when I heard Mr. Dudley passed away for a brief moment. I was very sad but then I remembered that was not how Mr Dudley would want me to remember him. He would want me to remember the good times we had . Thank you for everything Mr.D
Mark Kettner
Class of 76
I
Christopher Ingle
February 16, 2021
Al was the most loving,forgiving person I've ever met.when I didn't deserve love he loved me and I love him back,see you soon my friend.
Roslyn Pearson
November 3, 2020
Rip Mr. Dudley. You really made history fun at the Herm
Gerhardt (Jerry) Zellmer
November 6, 2010
Al Dudley was a fellow student with me in the Naval Officer Training at Southwestern Louisiana Institute (now USLL) during the latter part of WWII. He was also a dear brother in Christ and participated in a Bible based fellowship there and also in New Orleans when we transferred to Tulane. He and I visited his parents in Richmond,VA one Christmas. My wife, two grandchildren and I got to visit him a few years before his going home to glory. He was a faithful brother in Christ through the years and lived out the love of God toward others. It was my privelege to know him.
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December 28, 2009
Great man, greatest teacher...
Judy Robinson
Laura Sanders
December 16, 2009
I had the extreme privilege of getting to know Mr. Dudley very well in the last few years. I consider him the finest Christian man I have ever met and he set a standard for kindess and compassion that all should emulate. His friendship and genuine interest in my youngest son was well received. Their discussions on history and especially the Civil War were entertaining to watch. Mr. Dudley expressed great joy in knowing a straight A college student and said he would have enjoyed having him as one of his students. Both my son and I were distraught to hear of Mr. Dudley's sudden and unexpected passing.
Mr. Dudley's ongoing kindness and love to my brother in his darkest hours touched me deeply and gave my brother great joy and solace in their continuing friendship. My brother was also very saddened to learn of Mr. Dudley's passing and felt the loss as if a part of him had been removed.
I wish his sweetly, beloved wife Lillian the best and will hold tight my last vivid memory of them both eating giant strawberries fresh from the Farmer's fields in Rappahanock.
Laura and Spenser Sanders
Chris Ingle
After such a long and loving life; I wish you peace and your rightful place with God.
Cathy Hudgins Arnett
November 29, 2009
Many people have signed this guest book...for Al Dudley. My father in law, Peter I. Arnett, fondly knew and remembered Al Dudley. Pete drove the " traveling history bus" when the summer school class took the field trips. He still, to this day, remembers with fondness Al Dudley,and the relationship that he had with my husband, Jim Arnett.
I didn't know Jim in high school,as we met after High school that summer.
Al Dudley signed the guest book at our wedding in 1975. We married and moved away from Richmond..and have survived hurricane Katrina,and I had lost my only sister in 1981..so, I would like to share something with all of the students and people who have, so far, found and signed this guest book.
It is not enough for us to just say how sorry we are for the family.
I think that each of us grieve in different ways..but, the other night when Jim signed Al Dudley's book, I have never seen him openly weep over anyone's passing as he did on Nov 27th.
"We shall never pass this way again...", we all know that passage. It's so true and I am so thankful that I got a chance to meet Al Dudley at least once..He passed this way,and touched so many lives while on this earth.
What a great legacy he left to the many students whose lives that he touched !
God bless each of you who have taken the time to sign this guest book. There will never be another Al Dudley.
He surely exemplified what many only hope to achieve.
Cathy Hudgins Arnett,Henrico High, Class of 1970,JMU and LSU,Louisiana Master Gardener class of 2000
James Arnett
November 27, 2009
My dad sent me Mr. Dudley's notice. It has taken me a little time to write this because I was so touched upon learning of his passing and I just had trouble facing my feelings. Mr. D was my debate team coach, my American History teacher, when I helped to staff the bookroom he was the teacher responsible and most importantly he was my friend. I remember taking American History from him my junior year during summer school. I can still see him clearly talking about a significant event in history and he would get so excited that he would climb up on his desk to make a point. I have no idea what he was talking about anymore but I do remember that he would teach with a lot of passion and feeling. I also helped him grade final exams for the summer school American History class. He was sick at the time and I stopped by the house to help. We had a blast. I can think of no teacher that had as big an impact on me as that of Mr. Dudley. Living so far away it was difficult getting back to Virginia and HHS. When I did I would always stop by the school and visit Dr. D and his class. I missed seeing him a lot. I will always have fond memories of the time we spent together.
Jim Arnett
Class of 1970
November 20, 2009
I came upon Mr. Dudley's notice, and was so saddened to read of his recent passing. I was also fortunate to be a student in Mr. Dudley's History class at HHS. I can even remember where I sat in the classroom and thinking back, it reminded me of a stage, and Mr. Dudley was the consummate star. His passion and love resonated in every lesson, and I often tell my husband about my days in Mr. Dudley's class. I can think of no other teacher who left me with those kinds of memories. Even today, I still carry a love of history which can only be attributed to Mr. Dudley. I will always remember him, and I know he is still teaching.
Leah Heathcock Winn
Class of '68
C.V. Elin
November 19, 2009
November 19,2009
Mr Dudley was my American History teacher in my junior year at HHS.He was one of a kind and a truely gifted educator.There are parts of his class that I remember to this day. My sincere sympathy to his family.He will be missed.
C.V.Elin
class of 68
Dianne Flynn
November 19, 2009
I was greatly saddened to hear today of Mr. Dudley's passing. It was only recently I was relating to a friend my fondest high school memory - the summer school traveling history class and the wonderful teacher who jumped on desks to lead the charge against the Yankees. Would that all students could at least once be blessed with a teacher of such knowledge, integrity, and love of God and country. My sincere sympathy to the family, and may the love of so many whom he touched give you comfort.
Class of '70
Chris Bak
November 18, 2009
Thank you Mr. Dudley for making my experience at Hermitage memorable. Twenty four years later and you are still the best teacher I ever had. You will be missed.
November 16, 2009
I was not fortunate to have Mr Dudley as a teacher at HHS, but I know he was a good and kind teacher. If you were a student at HHS in the 60's you had special feelings towards many of the teachers and Mr Dudly was one of those. I send sympathy to his family on such a great loss.
Jenny Lindsey, class 67
Mary Lou Jinkins-Hopkins
November 14, 2009
My sympathy to Mr. Dudley's family. He was a wonderful teacher and a great example to all the students who crossed his path, both inside and outside the classroom. May God bless you through this time of sorrow and bring you to peace and joy with your memories of his life.
Maria Palesis
November 14, 2009
Unconditional love...he showered all who were lucky to have known him. He will never be forgotten.
Frank Wentzel
November 14, 2009
Believe it or not, I have known Al since Thomas Jefferson High School, and the time between then and his marriage to Lillian. One funny thing he did was to place one evening, a huge block of ice on the front stoop of a girl who had given him the "cold shoulder." A really GREAT MISS for us all.
Wend DuVal
November 12, 2009
I can't remember a time when "Uncle Al" wasn't a part of my life. I guess that is because he was my Dad's best friend. I will always remember the 4th of July fireworks at his house. The jokes, pranks, funny stories etc. He always made me laugh. He will be sorely missed, but I know he is making all the angels in heaven smile and laugh with his wit and wisdom. We love you Uncle Al. Prayers to Aunt Lil and Beverley in this time.
Wendy Wentzel-DuVal
Beverly Vincent
November 12, 2009
'Uncle' Al was always there. I can remember my Dad helping me with a school project and we couldn't figure out something so we would call Uncle Al and he would have the answer. I have many more memories of him that still make me smile and laugh. I am so sorry the weather kept me from attending the service today though I was definitely there in spirit. I'll miss you Uncle Al!
Lorraine Shackleford
November 12, 2009
I am a member of the HHS class of '63. Mr. Dudley was my history teacher..He impressed me with his love of our country, and his patriotism, and his family...It came through loud and clear...He was a very gentle and caring man and he will be greatly missed..He was one of my favorite teachers because of his compassion and care for his students...
Donna Wagner, Class of 87
November 12, 2009
I was another of the lucky ones who had Mr. Dudley for history my junior year. He always challenged his students in ways that made us want to learn more. I always looked forward to his class. I was so blessed to have him as a teacher. He will be greatly missed. My prayers go out to his family.
Susie Cumbia Clare
November 12, 2009
Al epitomized the word "friend" and I was blessed to witness and experience his friendship over a number of years. No matter the issue, Al gave it to you straight. On more than a few occasions his words hurt, but there was never question that they came from the heart -- and they always had merit.
No matter his own circumstances, Al would call just to stay in touch - and just to say "call me if you need anything."
Cory and Lexi will always remember fondly the many trips to Friendly's with Uncle Al and their dad.
He was one-of-a-kind and our lives were touched by his.
Karen Wiles Hicks
November 12, 2009
I was one of the lucky ones that had Mr. Dudley as a teacher. Reading through the entries of other Hermitage students has impressed me with the knowledge we gained having him as a teacher. Some of my teachers I can neither remember their names or anything of importance they taught, but with Mr Dudley I have thought many times over the years of his applications to life and the true appreciation I developed for American History due to his unique presentations. He was generous with his grades which always inspired me to do my best. We had some great teachers at Hermitage, but Mr. Dudley is at the top of the list. What a wonderful tribute to his life to see how many lives this wonderful man has touched.
Class of 1963
Randy Sweeney
November 11, 2009
Mr Dudley was a outstanding teacher. A man who influenced many lives for the better. A gentleman who always behaved as a gentleman.
Men just don't come any better.
James Taylor
November 11, 2009
I was a '63 grad. also from HHS. I did not have Mr. Dudley personally, but was very familiar with his love of teaching and the care he had for his students. I wil remember him fondly.
JIM TAYLOR '63
Timothy Raiford
November 11, 2009
These are some very appropriate words expressed concerning Mr Dudley, I concur with them all. It feels like only yesterday, but it was in fact 1962, my junior year, that I sat in his classroom and had the opportunity to spend that time with him. Truly a remarkable man.
A friend,
Tim Raiford- Class of 1963
Jayme Allen
November 11, 2009
The Hermitage High School family has lost a good one. Words can not express how sad I am. RIP Mr. Dudley
Jayme Remmelts Allen
Class of '85
Anna McRay
November 11, 2009
I am a Panther from the Class of 1990 and had the honor of being in his history class my freshman year. He was a great inspiration and told great stories while challenging us to succeed. Thank you for sharing him with us.
Linda Tabscott Jones
November 11, 2009
I am a member of the Hermitage High Class of 1963. Mr. Dudley was my history teacher, and I will never forget that he was always so patient and seemed to have a perennial twinkle in his eye. He made history come alive in what I recall as a very small classroom. I also remember he took time to talk with boys who just needed a friend. I have read all the previous comments and agree wholeheartedly.
Merrill Reese
November 11, 2009
What a joy it was to know Al! I will always remember him for his incredible sensitivity, quick wit and humor, and friendship. Condolances to Lillian and Beverly. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Merrill Reese (Portsmouth, VA)
Pattie Jennings
November 11, 2009
I am so sorry for your loss. Mr Dudley was my favorite teacher at Hermitage High back in the 60's. I have thought of him often during the years because of such fond memories I took with me. My favorite story that I have told over the years is, one day in class while I should have been listen, I was talking to my friend. All of a sudden the class room got very quiet, we looked up and Mr Dudley said to us very kindly, "Pattie, Fran can we start class now?" and we hung our heads answering with "yes sir". In my eyes, he was always a wonderful man, I know you will miss him dearly. The world of teaching was a better place due to having Mr Dudley in it.
Pattie Jennings ( Walker )
Roy Thacker
November 11, 2009
Mr. Dudley was a member of the "Greatest Generation". He was an officer in training to help invade Japan when World War II ended. I met him in 1960, but got to know him well on a school trip to DC in April 1961. After we were seated on the bus, he came down the asile handing out flyers on Colonial Williamsburg!
In the fall of 1962, he was unhappy with the canidates that were running for the U.S. Congress. He decided that he would run as a "write in canidate". The odds of winning were small for a full time school teacher and a family man.This man of courage recieved several hundred votes, not bad for a person who did not have the time to campaign!
When 4 members of my Senior Class joined the U.S. Marine Corps, he had a farewell party at his home for us. He & I remained close during those years. He would pick me up at midnight when I got off the bus from North Carolina. He wrote me letters while I was in Vietnam.
After The years in the Corps were over, he attended my wedding. He was there for me when my first chuld (a boy) died in the delivery room. He gave me confort while going through a painful divorce. He encourged me (a college drop out)to go back to school, where I earned a Masters Degree. He was very supportive in my second marriage. This Fall when we decided to leave Virginia and move to The Villages, Florida, he was supportive. He was always there for me, no matter the time of day or what the problem.
He was more like a second father to me,than a teacher. Even in my 60's the respect is still there. It is Mr. Dudley- not Al. When one recalls Hermitage High of our era he belongs with the greats of that time. That is with: Paul Watson, Chester Fritz, Robert Bruce Johnson,Doris Kelly and the other teachers that made Hermitage High the great and special place that it was and is.
One has to believe that in heaven that he is questioning the historial figures that he taught about in his class room.
We are all better people for having known him.
May God bless and keep Mr. Dudley in his arms and bless his family.
Mr. Dudley, God willing we will all see you again in His kingdom.
Roy Thacker Class of 1963
November 11, 2009
I too was one of the lucky ones to have Mr. Dudley for History. To this day, I share with people his unique way to remember the Constitutional Amendments. I send my condolances and prayers to his family. He was an excellent teacher who inspire many people, including me. Linda Binns Liles
Bruce Dickens (HHS '63)
November 11, 2009
The Dudley Family,
I was unfortunate not to have been one of those very lucky students who had Al as a teacher. It was well known by all at Hermitage that he had the ability to make history come to life and to make even the biggest history skeptic a lover of the subject.
I was fortunate, however, to have returned to Hermitage as a teacher after college and to have Mr. Dudley as one of the many mentors who tried to show me the proper and professional way to be an educator. The lessons he taught me both directly and indirectly, by example, helped me to become a better teacher.
My prayers are with you and be comforted to know that Al will never be forgotten by those whose lives were touched by him.
Karen Martin (Bartlett)
November 11, 2009
I was so fortunate to have Mr. Dudley for American History my junior year. He taught wonderfully and I learned military tactics and troop movements from his great classes. I will always love history (Virginia, United States and World) because of him. He was also a kind and lovely person, who truly cared about his students. He always had a smile on his face and always spoke to you in the halls when he saw you. Hermitage and the entire teaching establishment was truly blessed by him. Rest in peace, thou good and faithful servant, Mr. Dudley.
Jean Martz
November 11, 2009
I was one of the lucky ones who helped Mr.Dudley in the last weeks of his life. I sat by his side holding his hand and talking to him. He had even asked me to say the 23rd Psalm with him. Mr.Dudley is my favorite teacher ever. He will truly be missed by all. He may be gone, but never forgotten.
Cathy Arnett
November 11, 2009
I attended Henrico High School during the same time that my husband attended Hermitage High School. At that time, though, Jim Arnett wasn't my husband...and we hadn't met until after high school graduation. Jim's Dad, Peter Arnett, used to drive the debate team, I believe,and the summer school history classes to field trips.
When Jim learned the news of Al Dudley's passing, I felt like too, too, had known Mr. Dudley. He must have been one gem of a teacher and I feel sure there will never be another Al Dudley.
God bless the family in their loss..and most especially the student's whose lives were touched in a special way.
Cathy Hudgins( Henrico High,class of 1970) Arnett
The Balthaser Family
November 11, 2009
My family was Mr.Dudleys next door neighbor for the past 9 years.he was like a grandfather to all of us....If he needed help around the house we had no problem helping out...and in our hard times he seem to always know right when we needed the help the most.He use to take the kids out on the street at night to show them when mars was close enough to earth. He had his laser pointer that he would point on the trees to help them see..Mr. Dudley was the best neigbor anyone could ask for.Haley would help fill the bird feeder,Lynn would drive him on his daily tasks, Keri played him her music,Dan was his own personal handy man, and Tonya made sure to keep his hair looking top noch......we will miss him dearly, but we will meet again oneday....much love to Mrs. Dudley and BJ......we know this is a very hard time for you both..
Love and Prayers
Dan,Tonya,
Lynn,Keri,Haley Balthaser
November 10, 2009
We were just thinking back to HHS and our fond memories included Mr.Dudley, I was blessed to have him as a homeroom teacher. He was fun but even with fun would be given respect with the way he carried himself. God Bless you and your family , Mr. Dudley will not be forgotten. In His Love, April Lewis Spencer class of 92'
Beverley James Ingle (daughter)
November 10, 2009
To all of the entries..I am floored and touched beyond words for all of these comments...You cannot know how much this is helping...You often hear about the power of an encouraging word...I never knew the impact of that truth so much so as tonight..Thank you...
Donna (Vickstrom) Walter
November 10, 2009
I was one of the lucky ones who had Mr. Dudley as a history teacher and still talk about him today. It is because of him that I love Virginia history so much. I can honestly say he was my all time favorite teacher. May God bless his family and friends and may they have comfort in knowing that he touched so many lives. HHS Class of '85
Beth Craig-Cochran
November 10, 2009
I wanted to send my condolances to the family! He was the best history teacher that Hermitage High ever had and he will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this sad time.
Beth Craig-Cochran
Hermitage High School
Class of 1992
Jerry Zellmer
November 10, 2009
I met Al Dudley in Naval Officer Training in Lafayette, LA. He and several other men and I became best friends, buddies and brothers in Christ. After WWII we kept in contact, and I was always so thankful that we had men like him teaching in Public School - teaching American History as it really was and not the altered version of today.
Roy Thacker
November 10, 2009
Iknew Mr. Dudley for 49 years (since 1960). He was one of the teachers that made Hermitage "Hermitage" (a very special place to spend your high school years). He touched all of our lives and left the world a better place with his love and concern for his friends and students. He was like a second father to me and was always there if I needed him, or wanted his advice. He would meet me at midnight when I came home on leave from the Marines. He was there for me for all the important events of my life: My first marrage,the birth of my children, the death of my first born son, a divorce, my second marrage,
graduation from college. He inspired me through the good and the bad. I miss you old friend, but now you are in the arms of God! One day I hope to join you and we will be friends forever!
God bless you and your family!
Roy A. Thacker (Class of 1963)
Roslyn Pearson
November 10, 2009
Mr. Dudley was my History teacher my senior year at Hermitage High School. He was everyone favorite teacher to hangout with, he always had a story to tell. You could never be upset around him because he would always bring a smile upon your face. He will be sorely missed, but I know he is looking down upon all of us with that same smile and jolliness
Polly Franks
November 10, 2009
Mr. Dudley was truly one of the best
teachers to have graced the halls of Hermitage High School. Although I never had him as a teacher, he recruited me to help him during study hall in the book room. I learned a great many things by his example, all of them good. He had the respect of everybody, even the hoodlums! We called him "Cuddly Dudley." He was an amazing man and I was blessed to have known him. - Polly Franks HHS Class of '77
November 10, 2009
I had Mr. Dudley for history in the early 80's at Hermitage High School. He is one of the most memorable teachers of my high school years.
I will always remember him as The Master of the Chalk Map! Perfect free hand renditions of any country or continent on the globe on the chalkboard in 30 seconds!
My thoughts and prayers to all of his family and close friends.
Beth Norris Gibson HHS '82
.
November 10, 2009
I had Mr Dudley in an Honors History class (team taught with Mrs Ransome). He had that ability to inspire that is a rare gift. Not many teachers teach by standing on their desks, but the ones who do, we remember. A snippet of poetry for you Mr Dudley. Rest in Peace.
Susan Gross Brumfield
Class of '82
---------------------
O, teacher, thou catholicon of earth,
Thou moulder of the higher destiny, Lift up the mind of youth to nobler worth.
- Colfax Harmon
Betty Galan
November 10, 2009
As a Vietnam widow with five small children I moved into Mr. Dudley's neighborhood. Mr.Dudley was a kind friend and neighbor. He often calledto see if I had any chores around the house he could help with. Many times over the years he crawled under the house to unclog water pipes. He never forgot to call me on Memorial Day to thank me for my husband's sacrifice in the war. Condolences to Lillian and Beverly and other family members. He will be missed.
Russ Tomlin
November 10, 2009
I knew Al Dudley through my best friend, Gil Cumbia. Al was one of the best history teachers I ever met in Henrico County. The students' lives that he touched were truly blessed by this wonderful educator. Gil Cumbia passed away in 2005 and I am sure he was waiting for Al when he crossed over. Earth's loss is heaven's gain and two friends have been reunited. May the Lord watch over Al Dudley's family and friends tonight and the days to come.
Paul Muller, ' 73
November 10, 2009
Ditto to all the great memories shared. What a guy, what a teacher! We need more Al Dudley's.
Karen Mills DeJarnette, HHS '85
November 10, 2009
Mr. Dudley had taught my brother, who encouraged me to get to know his favorite teacher. So, I met him when I started Hermitage. He was kind and was a great mentor in encouraging me to study History and to go to college. After graduation, I met Mrs. Dudley and would see them at Shoney's and other local eateries. Mr. Dudley always had Virginia history to share, and I felt enriched. I am grateful for his influence on my life. I will pray for you in the hard days to come.
November 10, 2009
i was one of many lucky ones to have him as my history teacher. His humor and ability to grasp our attention is what he'll leave behind with me. Always in my heart Hermitage 93
Adrian Foreman
November 10, 2009
All my prayers and blessings go out to the Dudley family. When I think of Mr. Dudley it is hard for me to feel sorrowful. He was not that kind of man. He brought joy to everyone around him. I always wanted to have him as my history teacher but I was always too slow at registration. His classes would always fill up fast. He made learning fun and challenged me to step up my game. He will be missed but never forgotten. I know he is in heaven now trying to monitor the halls and give the angels instructions. Live on in glory Mr. Dudley and we will see you soon.
Phil Chalos
November 10, 2009
My condolences to the family...I remember Mr. Dudley from my years at Hermitage , he was absolutley one of the best that ever walked through the doors at HHS. He was a great teacher and a cherished friend the for years at I was in shcool and after. 28 years later and I'm still telling stories about crouching down behind a desk as those rotten red coats approached or roaming the halls on gaurd duty at the fort. He was quite a man and will be deeply missed by all that knew him.
Anne Muller Hamrick
November 10, 2009
Thirty-nine years later and I still remember how special Mr. Dudley, my American history teacher, was. He touched my life and countless others. May God give him a bear-hug of welcome into His kingdom.
Nancy Robinson Campbell
November 10, 2009
I attended the next-to-the-last summer school class with fieldtrips every Wednesday. (I heard the following year that Mr. Dudley had heat stroke during one of the excursions - don't know if that's true or not.)
I know he would travel around Virginia backroads - chat with store owners - to find the secluded spots of history that he'd later take us to on the fieldtrips.
I remember how Mr. Dudley would "knight" young men in the class with his pointer. How he'd stand on his desk to call out the "Liberty or Death" speech. I remember Mr. and Mrs. Dudley taking a friend and me (along with a WHOLE busload of his neighbor kids) to see the "Common Glory." I remember how he SOMEHOW talked a Native American out of his full headdress at Jamestown so he could meet us on the dock and "welcome" us to the New World.
I have always loved Mr. Dudley. I remember that his birthday is one day before my sister's - June 29th - One year I brought him a cake to his home with the words "To Sir With Love" written on it.
I'd lost my own father a few years earlier. Mr. Dudley would have been an ideal father-substitute. Kind, funny, gentle, passionate (about history).
The world has lost a great treasure.
My condolences to his family - and to ALL of us for losing such a very special man.
Carol Taylor
November 10, 2009
Mr. Dudley you are and always will be my favorite teacher. you will be greatly missed. thanks for all the good times in class.Class of 85. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Beverley Beer
November 10, 2009
I feel very fortunate and blessed to say that he was my Uncle Al! He was an important part of my life, and I will always treasure my many fond and enriching conversations with him. I will miss him calling me up to tell me to look out the window at something spectacular in the night sky! I went to J. R. Tucker HS in the 70's, and I wish I had skipped school so that I could go be in my Uncle's history class. Thank you so much for sharing so many heartwarming memories!
Renee Blaylock
November 10, 2009
Mr. Dudley was the best teacher I ever had. I looked forward to attending his class each day. You knew that you were going to learn something when you entered his classroom. He had a gift for teaching and and I was so lucky to have learned from such a wonderful man. He will be greatly missed! HHS 1985
Nancy Ford
November 10, 2009
Mr. Dudley was that rare breed of teacher who invited you to come into his world of vast historical knowledge. He brought that knowledge to life and made it exciting and relevant. He had high standards because of the firm foundation on which he stood. I remember the man more than what he taught because of his countenance that spoke of his love for the Lord. This is his greatest legacy.
Olga
November 10, 2009
Mrs. Dudley and BJ:
After reading all the kind remarks of former student and teachers, I was sorry I never had Mr. Dudley as one of my teachers for History!
I am so thankful he will be in heaven waiting for us.
God bless you during this time of loss. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not in your own understanding. The Lord will direct your path. Proverbs 3:5-6
Love and prayers, Olga
November 10, 2009
Mr.Dudley will truly be missed by everyone who knew him. I was lucky enough to help and comfort him in his last days. He was a very special man. He had a special way of teaching his students that will never be forgotten. You will always remain in our hearts forever.
Fran Miller Tredway
November 10, 2009
Mr. Dudley taught the subject i couldn't stand, but learned to like it through his teaching. He was an inspiration to find the joy of learning! fran miller tredway( HHS 1971)
November 9, 2009
I was one of the lucky ones to have been a student of Mr Dudley's. He made learning fun, and we never knew what was going to happen when we got to class, as his sense of humor and love of pranks were well known. It was obvious he loved teaching, and we loved him. He was my mentor, and took me and a few other friends to go see "The Sword in the Stone". I will never forget his kindness and caring. He will be sorely missed.
Charlotte Ransone Reeser, HHS Class of 1971
November 9, 2009
I was also fortunate to have Mr. Dudley while at Hermitage. He was a teacher who inspired us and helped us realize our potential and purpose.
He surpised me with a book at graduation titled, "A Treasury of the World's Best Loved Poems". He wrote a nice note inside and referred me to the final versus of a particular poem. The poem is, "The Village Blacksmith" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The versus are:
"Toiling,-rejoicing,-sorrowing,
Onward through life he goes;
Each morning sees some task begin,
Each evening sees it close;
Something attempted, something done,
Has earned a night's repose.
Thanks, thanks to thee, my worthy friend.
For the lesson thou hast taught!
Thus at the flaming forge of life
Our fortunes must be wrought;
Thus on its sounding anvil shaped
Each burning deed and thought."
Thanks Mr. D for the lessons taught and for being that worthy friend and teacher. You live on in the lives of those you have taught.
Eric Broughton
HHS Class of '75
November 9, 2009
I was one of the very fortunate students who had the pleasure of the experience of being taught by Mr. Dudley. He was one of the most enthusiastic, motivating, inspiring and genuinely concerning teacher I have met. His never ending energy level was contageous and motivational. I , to this day, distinctly remember his Summer school History field trip class. We visited the Petersburg Battle Field. It was extremely hot that day and Mr. Dudley, being the true professional he was, was dressed in a 3 piece business suit and tie. He literally rolled down the mounds and low crawled to demonstrate to us the way soldiers maneuvered themselves to avoid enema incoming fire. Mr. Dudley was an exceptional role model and a true inspiration to future teachers. He will be greatly missed but never replaced. Rest in Peace.
Mike Walton HHS 71
November 9, 2009
May you always know that Mr. Dudley was a very significant part of many students lives at Hermitage HS.
Tom Grimes
November 9, 2009
There are many of us HHS alumni who stay intouch thru fb. We represent the students of '68-'71. The news of our Mr. Dudley was shared today with this elite group and all day we have been sharing all the wonderful memories of Mr. Dudley. Each one of us has that one image that will always be in our thoughts. For me it will be the look that he always shared as he truly believed in us and even when we didn't think we were all that smart, Mr. Dudley lifted us and took us to that level of confidence. Yes, he will be missed, but he lives on in us all. Thank You Mr. Dudley for enriching our lives!
Jay Gardner
November 9, 2009
I was fortunate to have Mr. Dudley as my history teacher at Hermitage High School. He helped make U.S. History a favorite class. My senior year, I asked Mr. Dudley to sign his name next to the superlative of being "Easiest Teacher" at Hermitage. He kindly did so and next to it he wrote, "I had to be easy on dumb kids." This was Mr. Dudley's wit and humor that I will always remember.
Please accept my sympathy.
Jay Gardner
Hermitage High School
Class of 1984
David Savino
November 9, 2009
To the Dudley Family,
I taught at Hermitage with Al in the 1980s. He was universally respected by his students and peers. But the essence of Al was the one-on-one conversation. Blunt, honest, humorous -Al had an anecdote or quip for every occasion. He could be serious one moment and then disarm you with that impish smile the next. Al called me every year on Guy Fawkes Day because, he said, "I know you understand". A couple of years ago, Al and I had lunch together at Friendly's where I attempted to plumb the depths of his political philosophy. I barely scratched the surface. Al had an encyclopedic knowledge of the Constitution and very definate ideas on the direction our nation was heading. As usual, Al provoked thought. But in between Lockeian and Jeffersonian proclamations, Al prodded me to divulge information about my newly pregnant wife and for other details about my life. That was so like Al - exceedingly generous and caring. If there were a Hall of Fame for Hermitage teachers, Al would be the initial inductee. He is a legend. I felt honored that he called me 'friend'. Please accept my condolences.
Kim Jones Rosenfeld (HHS 1983)
November 9, 2009
Mr. Dudley was such a wonderful person and teacher. Our loss is Heaven's gain! I feel truly blessed to have had him as a teacher. God Bless his family during this time.
November 9, 2009
Lillian & the Dudley Family,
I feel so fortunate to have known Al as a colleague at Hermitage High School. He was such an inspiration to many faculty and students alike. He had real passion for history and storytelling, he did everything he could to make history come alive for the students. I shall miss him also as a dear friend and confidant. Often he would call me up with some interesting bit of historical information or to share something just plain fascinating like a lunar eclipse. Al was also a solid Patriot who loved this country and American history more than most of us will every know.
Be comforted in knowing that he touched so many lives in a positive manner and that he was a dear friend to many. I will miss him greatly.
Tim Donahue
Faculty, Hermitage HS
Ken Rogers
November 9, 2009
I had Mr. Dudley (some of us loving called him Dr. Mudley) as a History teacher in 1971. Over the years, he is the one teacher that I have always remembered and thought of often because I have always been mindful of the positive impact he had on my life. From standing on his desk shooting at us to share and make History come alive, to lecturing us in the auditorium and encouraing us to work harder on our Senate Bills we wanted to pass, making sure we understood they were to be good for our Country not for our personal benefit (oh how I wish he had taught some of those in DC now). But most important to me was one Sunday when he loaded a bunch of high school seniors in his car and took us to a little church out in Powhatan (can you even imagine that happening now) to hear a young man preach that had been under Mr. Dudley's mentoring as a student teacher. He taught me then that it was not only important to have an "academic" knowledge, but to have a saving knowledge of the One that was, is and always will be. So, while it is sad to hear of his passing, it is joyful to know that one day, I will be able to see him again and I can't help but smile when I think of a classroom in Heaven with a jolly fellow standing on a desk, aiming his pointer at Jesus and telling Him, "this is how they did it".
Terry Elliott Spurrier (HHS 1976)
November 9, 2009
To the Dudley Family,
Mr. Dudley never taught me at Hermitage, but I helped him in his "bookroom" for two years. What a wonderful, kind, compassionate man. The many students he taught over the years were very lucky to have such a teacher.
May your memories provide comfort for you all during this time.
Dr. Robert Williams
November 9, 2009
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Dudley family. Like many great teachers do, Mr. Dudley not only taught History, he taught invaluable life lessons as well.
Susan Lewis Powell
November 9, 2009
Uncle Al was always a part of my life. One of my favorite pictures growing up is probably around 1960 and I got a doctor kit for Christmas, and there is a picture of him looking down my throat at our grandmother's house in the country. Uncle Al was always a kidder and loved to talk history. As I grew older and distance separated us, he and your mother would call me on my birthday in recent years and sing "happy birthday". I will miss that phone call. It reminded me that even in my parents' absence someone still loved me. He had struggles in his life as we all do. His final days are a testimony to his faith in God and belief in Jesus Christ. His baptism is a significant witness that I will never forget. We pray that the help and comfort of friends will be with you and help you in the days to come.
Love, Susan, Barry, Katie, Molly, and Ricky
November 9, 2009
Mr. Dudley, you were a great history teacher and a great person, you taught me well in 1976, im proud to say you were my teacher. thanks for all the good times as well as the exams. you will be missed. class of 1976, audrey (grow) kirby
November 9, 2009
God bless you dad...and he has!
Evelyn Stells
November 9, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
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