Elsie Ruth (Messer) Dudley

Elsie Ruth Dudley, 88, of Four Oaks, passed away on Tuesday, March 18, 2025 at the Senior Citizens Village of Dunn surrounded by her loving family.  A beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, Elsie’s life was marked by her boundless energy, deep love for her family, and her passion for life’s simple pleasures.

Elsie was a fun-loving woman who always found joy in the company of her children and grandchildren.  She cherished every moment spent with them, whether it was listening to music, dancing, playing ball, fishing, or sharing laughter with those she loved. 

Elsie found peace and fulfillment in tending to her roses and working in her yard.  Her garden was a reflection of her nurturing heart, full of color, life and beauty.  Elsie enjoyed attending Hood’s Grove Baptist Church.  She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a reminder to cherish every moment with those we hold dear.

She is preceded in death by her parents, John David Messer and Myrtle Phelps Messer; and her beloved husband of 57 years, Carlie Hinson Dudley; and many siblings.

She is survived and loved by her daughters, Carol D. Tanner and husband Ronald of Dunn, Janet D. Pope and husband Troy of Benson, and Ruby D. Thornton and husband Dennis of Newton Grove; grandchildren, Ron Tanner and wife Martha, David Tanner and wife Emily, Travis Pope and wife Renee, Susan Thornton and Morgan Thornton. She is also loved by fourteen great grandchildren; sisters, Elizabeth Grant and Marie Jones, both of High Point; brother Billy Messer, also of High Point; and sister-in-law Mary Jane Norris of Erwin. 

Family will be receiving friends on Thursday, March 20, 2025 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Dunn Funeral Home of Newton Grove. 

A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Dunn Funeral Home of Newton Grove.

Officiating the service will be Justin Powell and Dr. Chris Lee. 

Interment will be at Hoods Grove Free Will Baptist Church Cemetery of Newton Grove.

The family will be meeting at the home of Elsie Dudley in Four Oaks.

Flowers are welcome, or Memorials may be made to Bentonville Fire Department, c/o James Beasley, 8135 Devils Racetrack Road, Four Oaks, N.C., 27524.

Dunn Funeral Home of Newton Grove is honored to serve the family of Elsie Dudley.

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