Biography: Judge Robert H. Dudley died on April 1, 2023 at the age of 89.  He was a third-generation lawyer born and raised in Jonesboro.  His father, Denver L. Dudley, practiced law and his mother, Helen Pasley Dudley, was a special education teacher and school administrator.

He joined a private practice in Pocahontas which became Schoonover and Dudley, served as deputy Prosecuting Attorney and was then elected Prosecuting Attorney for three terms.  He was elected to Circuit Judge (Chancellor) and served in that capacity for ten years.  The Arkansas Gazette, in an editorial endorsement said, “He is one of the state’s most respected jurists, as attested by the extraordinarily high ratings that lawyers have given to him. . .”  He tried several high-profile cases while on the circuit bench.  He was then elected to the Supreme Court of Arkansas where he served for sixteen years.

He and his first wife, Sally Wentzell Dudley, have four children.  Judge Dudley often said, “My children, like me, are not perfect, but I love them unconditionally!”  The children are Debbie Dudley (Frank) Branson, a lawyer in Dallas, Texas, Kathy Dudley Helms, a lawyer in Columbia, South Carolina, Cindy Dudley (Spencer) Longshore, a retired media salesperson in Montgomery, Alabama, and Bob Dudley, Jr., a retired business owner in Little Rock.  He is also survived by seven grandchildren and four great grandchildren – known to them as Pop.

He later married Mary Lynn Anthony who added immense joy to his life.  After his retirement he and Mary Lynn gardened, played golf, and traveled extensively.  She passed away after seventeen wonderful years of marriage.

Late in life, Stuart Cobb enriched his life again.  He loved the fact that she lives her life as if every moment is the last.  He cherished time with her, and they remained close until his death.  Her tender love and care allowed him to peacefully transition from this life.

His was the life of a lucky man well lived and well loved.

There will be a private interment and Celebration of Life to be scheduled.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the Judge Robert H. Dudley Scholarship fund at the University of Arkansas School of Law so that his legacy will continue to touch the lives of others. Arrangements are under the direction of RuebelFuneralHome.com