Lester Earl Dudley

Lester Earl Dudley, 97, of Durham passed away on April 9, 2025, at home with his family by his side. Mr. Dudley was born on September 27, 1927, in Craven County, NC to the late Vernon and Lizzie Jane Barrow Dudley.

In addition to his parents Mr. Dudley is preceded in death by his wife Janie Wynne Dudley; brothers; Russell Dudley, Henry Dudley and Jesse Dudley; sisters, Giva Mayo, Margaret Wayne, and Beatrice Lewis; great granddaughter, Lula Wade.

He is survived by his son, Randy Thomas Dudley of Durham; daughter, Terri Dudley Wade and Rick Wade of Durham; grandchildren, Kimberly Wade Bohannon and husband Justin, and Matthew Wade and wife Erica; great grandchildren, Hannah Bohannon, Cole Bohannon, Maisel Wade, Porter Wade and Everett Wade.

Lester spent his early years in Dudley’s Crossroads near Vanceboro, North Carolina. He proudly served in the Army National Guard. After relocating to Durham, he was employed by Mead Containers and later by Liggett & Myers Tobacco Company, where he worked until his retirement. In his spare time, Lester enjoyed boating and fishing, two of his greatest passions. He loved his family and will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend to those who knew him.

A visitation will be held Monday April 14, 2025, at Hudson Funeral Home from 11:00 a.m. until 12 p.m. followed by a funeral service at 12 p.m. at Hudson Funeral Home Chapel. Entombment will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park Chapel of Hope Mausoleum.

Officiating with be Reverend Jonathan Barbee.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bethesda Baptist Church, 1914 S. Miami Blvd. Durham, NC 27703.