Chrystal Jennifer Dudley (78) passed away peacefully in her home, surrounded by her family on Saturday, May 25 after a long battle with cancer. She is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, John Alan Dudley; children, Michael (Joanna) Dudley, Amy (Dan Stenglein) Dudley, Peter (Tracy) Dudley and Jennifer (Luke) Newhart; nine grandchildren, Tyler, Matthew and Emma Mulvehill, Emily, Abigail, and Caroline Dudley, Nolan and Kyleigh Dudley, and Aubrey Newhart; sister Mary Steger, sister-in-law Elaine Sykes and many nieces and nephews; as well as many others who were dear loved ones. Chrystal was predeceased by her parents, Herbert and Clara Sykes; in-laws, Clifford and Lily Dudley; brother Malcolm Sykes; brother and sister-in-law Gordon and Joan Sykes; and brothers-in-law, James Steger and Robert Dudley.
Chrystal was born in Eyam, an English village within the Peak District National Park. She met the love of her life when she was two and John was five, when their families met on their voyage from England to America. Chrystal grew up in McGraw, NY, the youngest of four children. She graduated from Cortland Junior – Senior High School in 1964 and Powelson Business Institute in 1966. She married John in 1969; and eventually settled in Pittsford, NY, where they built a life they loved.
Chrystal was a refined, dignified, kind, gentle, and patient lady; the chief cornerstone of her family’s foundation. She was the Secretary at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church for many years. Her lifelong service included volunteer work at Christ Church including Vestry, Altar Guild, Sunday School leader, St. Alban’s & St. Cecilia’s Guild, Lay Leader, delivering flowers and Holy Eucharist to those in need. Chrystal also served her community well as a Cub Scout leader, caring for babies at Daystar, blood donation, apheresis, crocheting hats and scarves for those in need, and welcoming anyone to her table. In addition to her marriage to John, the births of their children and grandchildren, one of Chrystal’s fondest memories was when together, John and Chrystal brought their four children to England to travel to all their special places, visiting family and national historic sites. Chrystal will be deeply missed by all those she held dear. Celebration of life will be held, Saturday, June 1st, 10:00 AM at Christ Episcopal Church, 36 South Main Street in Pittsford, NY.