Phyllis Dudley

Phyllis Dudley, 88, went into the arms of her Lord and Savior on May 23, 2025, in her Odessa, Texas, home surrounded by the love of her family and her two dogs.

Visitation will be held at Sunset Memorial Gardens, Thursday, May 29,2025 from 5:00PM-7:00PM. Funeral services will be held at Faith Fellowship with Pastor Becky Hand, officiating, on Friday, May 30, 2025, at 10:30 AM, followed by the entombment at Sunset Memorial.

Phyllis was born on May 7, 1937, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, to Anna and Joseph Schweighardt. On September 5, 1953, she married the love of her life, Dennis “Bud” Dudley. Throughout their 49 years of marriage, Phyllis devoted herself to her family as a loving homemaker. Raising her children brought her the greatest joy. Together, Phyllis and Bud founded Radiator Service and Supply, which eventually grew into the successful business Heat-X-Changers Systems. Phyllis had a vibrant spirit and a passion for belly dancing, which led her to teach classes and perform at numerous events and for various organizations. Among her most treasured memories were the times she danced for children in hospitals, bringing smiles and comfort through her graceful performances. She was an Eastern Star and in the early 70’s she served a term as President the El Minya Ladies Oriental Shrine.

A woman of incredible grace and strength, Phyllis was the heart of her family, her love spanning five generations. She is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Joseph Schweighardt of New York and Anna Lofton of Phoenix, Arizona; her devoted husband of 49 years, Dennis W. Dudley Sr.; her cherished children, Beverley Dudley Simmons and Dennis W. Dudley Jr., all of Odessa; and her dear siblings, Joy Newingham and John Lofton, both of Phoenix, Arizona.

Phyllis is survived by her loving daughter, Deborah Dudley of Odessa, and her sister, Ruth Newingham of Phoenix, Arizona. She leaves behind her granddaughter, Lanell Simmons of Las Cruces, New Mexico; and two great-granddaughters, Erica Levario, along with her husband Fred Levario and their children, Ethan and Sadie of Odessa, and Kristin Simmons and her son, Jackson Chavarria of Houston, Texas. Also, among those who held a special place in her heart is longtime family friend Holly Sorrells, along with Phyllis’s beloved Shih Tzus, Suzette, and Sparky.

To know her was to love her. She brought a dose of humor and a whole lot of faith to everything she did. She often said, “I love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck”—words that will echo forever in the hearts of her family. She made this world brighter, more beautiful, and endlessly more fun. Her memory will forever be a guiding light for all of us who had the honor to be loved by her.

We greatly appreciate the friendship, love & spiritual guidance that Pastor Becky Hand gave to this family. Phyllis loved her many visits at home, telling stories, sharing communion & Pastor Becky always quick to show up at the hospital be by her side.

We wish to extend our sincere gratitude to the staff with Hospice of Midland.