Dudley Wykes Obituary

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Dudley A. Wykes, a devoted husband, loving father, cherished pawpaw, and a true cowboy at heart.  Dudley was a man of quiet strength, deep kindness, and unwavering love for his family, friends, and the land he called home.  

A hardworking rancher, Dudley found joy in the simple, honest life- early mornings, open fields, and the satisfaction of a job well done.  He was the kind of man who could fix anything with his hands, offer wisdom without many words, and make everyone feel welcome at his table.  Above all, he loved his people.  Dudley was a devoted husband to Lorraine Rinehart Wykes, his partner in life and love, with whom he shared countless memories, laughter, and years of steadfast companionship.  Together, they built a life filled with warmth, respect, and a love that stood the test of time.  

He was a proud father to Trina Wykes and Jason Wykes (Monica) and a caring stepfather to Tina Fair (Todd) and Shannon Parker (Michael).  Being a grandfather was one of his greatest joys, and he treasured every moment spent with Taylor Payne (Jared), Sydni Wykes, Brogan Wykes (Claire), Samantha Dickehut (Hunter), Kathryn Messerschmidt (Ben), Ian Guinn, Shawn Parker, and Dawson Parker.  His love extended to his great-grandchildren, Kirby Payne, Carlam, Rilla, and Sutton Messerschmidt, and two more little ones on the way.  Dudley is also survived by his loving sisters, Janie Vance (Bobby) and Reba Short (Richard), as well as many nieces and nephews who held a special place in his heart.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Tressie Wykes, and his brothers, Emory Dean Wykes, Don Wykes, and Roger Wykes.

His legacy lives on in the lessons he passed down, lessons of hard work, loyalty, resilience, and the importance of family.  He was the kind of man who showed up when you needed him, knew the value of a firm handshake and an honest day's work, and made the world a little steadier for those who knew him.  Dudley's impact stretched far beyond his family, friends, neighbors, and fellow ranchers knew him as a man they could always count on, whether to lend a helping hand, share a story, or simply sit in a comfortable silence under the open sky.

A funeral service to honor and celebrate Dudley's life will be held at Sneed-Carnley Funeral Chapel, located at Third and Chestnut, on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 2 pm, with visitation an hour prior.  Burial will follow at Smith Cemetery in Oakalla.  Family and friends are invited to come together to share memories, celebrate his life, and honor the man who meant so much to so many.  Though he may have hung up his hat for the last time, Dudley will forever ride on in the hearts of those who loved him.