Michael Samuel Dudley was born on December 29, 1952 in Norfolk, Virginia. His life was filled with many experiences, including living well with Alzheimer’s Disease, before passing away at home November 22, 2020. Michael loved growing up on his family’s farm in Pungo and learning about true country living. Growing crops and raising animals, hunting and fishing, riding horses, and hayrides and bonfires with his large family and friends-this is what he cherished all his life.
Michael’s first job was working at a family member’s dairy farm on Newtown Road in Norfolk. But he soon returned to his home away from home, Johnny Dudley’s Cavalier Garage on Holly Road. Michael spent so much of his life with his Dad at the garage. First, just hanging out as a child and teenager, and then working there along with his brother Jody until 1991. Michael then began a 25 year career as a diesel mechanic with Hampton Roads Transit in Norfolk. He thrived at this new place. He loved every person he met…they shared their personal lives, joys and sorrows, highs and lows, meals, hugs, and lots of laughter! Michael had a heart for helping, especially when it involved preparing food. He’d show up and show off his cooking skills. He loved cooking for pig roasts, shucking oysters, frying fish, and fixing collards! He always wanted everyone to be well fed.
Michael was predeceased by parents Olin Lee Dudley and Irene Jarman Dudley. He is survived by his wife of 31 years Marsha Earnhart Dudley, his brothers and sisters, Pam Jennings (Phil), Jody Dudley (Lisa), John Dudley (Amy), and Missy Achee (Mike), children Irene Michelle Dudley, Michael S. Dudley ll, Holly Dudley Eunice (Matt), Karma Dudley Mathison, and Ryan Andrews Hodges (Keith) and daughter-in-law Wendy Z. Dudley. Michael was blessed with 8 grandchildren and loved every moment with them.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 2, 2020 from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at Altmeyer Funeral Home 5033 Rouse Dr. Virginia Beach 23462. A memorial service will be held at Virginia Beach United Methodist Church, 212 19th Street, Virginia Beach, Thursday, December 3, 2020, at 2:00 p.m. Safe practices for Covid will be followed at the service, including health questionnaire, appropriate seating, social distancing, and wearing of a mask at all times. Please preregister to attend by noon on Thursday, December 3rd, by using this link: http://vbumc.encompassinc.co/