Gary W. Dudley

Gary W. Dudley, age 72, of Northville, formerly of Southfield, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2025. He was born on September 21, 1952 in Wichita Falls, Texas; son of Alphonso and Mary (Golston) Dudley. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Lanette Williams on August 2, 1975. This August they would have celebrated 50 years of marriage.

Gary graduated from Southeastern High School in Detroit, class of 1970. He continued his education at Wayne State University where he studied engineering before being drafted into the Air Force. He proudly served in the United States Air Force and was stationed in Chicago working in the Maintenance and Supply Department. Following his active duty service, he served in the Reserves at Selfridge Air Force Base in Michigan.

Gary dedicated 22 years to his first career as head cashier at Farmer Jack in Ferndale before embarking on a second chapter with Ford Motor Company. He worked as a Hi-Lo driver at the Dearborn Stamping Plant, where he remained until his retirement in 2016. He was a dedicated and committed employee.

Gary was a devoted member of Straight Gate International Church for over 20 years. In 2015, he and his wife founded Compassion for Christ Ministries, sharing the message of Christ with senior communities throughout Northville and Metro Detroit. Their ministry was warmly received at locations such as Allen Terrace, Addington Place, Pomeroy Living, Brookdale, the Northville Community Center, Riverview Jefferson, and Amy’s Place. Gary also volunteered his time collecting donations at Ridgewood and Silver Springs Elementary Schools. His unwavering faith and commitment to serving others were truly remarkable.

Gary treasured time with his family and worked tirelessly throughout his life to support them. He loved being surrounded by his children and grandchildren—whether sharing snacks with the little ones or hosting family barbecues where he could show off his grilling skills. Keeping up with his five daughters and all their activities wasn’t easy, but Gary made it a priority to stay connected and involved in their lives.

A lover of music, Gary could always be found listening to the “oldies but goodies,” and he enjoyed relaxing with classic westerns on TV. He and his wife shared many special meals together, with Flemings being their favorite spot for a night out. His loyal companion, Coco, was always by his side—sleeping next to him each night and offering comfort during his final moments, as he peacefully transitioned to be with the Lord.

Gary is survived by his loving wife Lanette; his daughters, Keshya Boudreaux, Tameka (Nathaniel) Austin, Lakéya (Jason) Stewart, Nákhesha (Bill) Hale, and La Toya (Scott) Hampton; his brother-in-law, Barnell Marks, Sr.; his grandchildren, Garrette Boudreaux, Dorian Burt, Anastasia Boudreaux, Jason Stewart, Jr., Nathaniel Austin, Andrew Austin, Harlem Stewart, Bishop Stewart, Zöe Snead, and David Snead III; his great grandchild, Dallas Burt; his nephews, Barnell Marks, Jr. and Gary Marks; and his niece Tina Marks. He is also loved by many other nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Darryl Dudley.

Visitation will be held Sunday, July 20, 2025 from Noon until 2:00 p.m. at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville. A funeral service will be held Monday, July 21, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at Straight Gate International Church, 10100 Grand River Ave., Detroit, Michigan 48204. Bishop Andrew Merritt will officiate the service. Gary will be laid to rest at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly where he will receive military honors for his dedication to his country. Memorial contributions are suggested to Compassion for Christ Ministries.