Thomas James Dudley

The youngest of four boys, Tom was born in Culver City, California, and raised in Newhall. After high school, he joined the Brothers of the Holy Cross and attended St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas. As a brother, he became a teacher and served at many high schools across the southern United States. He eventually settled in Wichita Falls, Texas, and left the brotherhood. There he married the love of his life, Patty, in a ceremony he often described as so crowded it was “standing room only.” In Wichita Falls, they raised their three children and were active members of their church and community.

Never shy and always waiting with a joke or story to share, Tom was a true light to the world around him. Many knew Tom for his leadership of the Saturday evening choir at Our Lady Queen of Peace. His booming voice and cheerful enthusiasm were recognizable to all who attended during the eighteen years he read and sang.

Although he was very involved in his church, nothing compared to the devotion he showed his wife and children. Family was the most important aspect of Tom’s life. He was a thoughtful husband and father, who never wavered in his love for each of them. There will be so many beautiful memories of Tom, but none more than the love he shared with us.

Later in life, Tom and Patty moved to Austin to live closer to their children and grandchildren. He continued to be active in the church and community. He was as outgoing and full of stories as ever and made many new friends. For the past several years, Tom bravely battled dementia. Even as the confusion set in, his love for his family never relented and will live on in our hearts and actions as he is finally able to rest in peace.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents, Willard and Melva Dudley, and brother Don Dudley. Tom is survived by his loving wife, Patty Dudley; his children, Mary Epperson (Donald), Anne Zaragosa (Chris), Tom Dudley (Joanna); five grandchildren, Henry, Elizabeth, Benjamin, Dottie, and Harrison; two brothers, Ted Dudley (Marianne) and Michael Kioni Dudley (Doris); and spouse of his brother Don, Fran Dudley. Tom also had many sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, as well as many, many nieces and nephews, whom he loved dearly.

A funeral mass with immediate family only will be celebrated next week. A service to celebrate Tom’s life with his extended family and friends is planned for Spring 2021.

In place of flowers, our family would appreciate a kind donation in honor of Tom to Mike’s Place, a wonderful senior care program that provided Tom with many laughs and much joy. (https://www.mealsonwheelscentraltexas.org/get-involved/mikes-place)