John “Gene” Dudley

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. 13 ^th Street, Lawrence, KS  66044.