Obituary of Janeta Alder Dudley

Janeta Alder Dudley, 85, of Forest, VA, was at her place of residence when the Lord called her home on the evening of Wednesday, November 24, 2021. She was born in Princeton, West Virginia, on March 18, 1936, to the late Marvin and Bessie Alder. She was preceded in death by her husband, Carleton Lee Dudley, and her son-in-law, which she loved as her own, Gary Edwin Johnson, Jr. Janeta graduated from Richmond Professional Institute in 1946, with a degree in merchandising. Over the years, her employment history took her several places including the Virginia Department of Taxation and Virginia Department of Transportation. She became self-employed as a bookkeeper in the 1970s. During that time, she kept payroll for several businesses from her home, and also completed tax returns for numerous friends and family. Being very civic-minded all through her life, she was involved with politics and the election process. She served Bedford County faithfully for 46 years, first as an election officer. After that she was appointed to the Electoral Board in 2003, where she served until her death. Janeta was a faithful member of Bethany United Methodist Church where she served on many committees. She worked tirelessly and coordinated many church events. Everyone looked forward to her delicious meals and sharing fellowship with her. Having a servant's heart led her to become a member of the Eastern Star Chapters for both Bedford and Forest. She served in numerous positions with both Chapters over the years. In 1999-2000, she was appointed Grand Martha for the Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Star of Virginia. She loved her Eastern Star family and the Masons. She was always there to help them at any function if they needed her assistance. She loved her family dearly and was always there for everyone. She was the best Mom anyone could ask for and will be missed more than words can ever express. Janeta is survived by her daughter, Maryleen Dudley Johnson, of Fredericksburg, VA, step-daughter, Brenda Dudley Hudson, of Goode, VA ; sisters, Patricia A. Hankins (Cliff), Betty A. Gibbons, both of Oklahoma City, OK ; brothers, Marvin F. Alder II (Ann), Joseph M. Alder (Deborah), both of Blackstone, VA; In addition to many nieces and nephews. For memorial contributions, or in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to her church, Bethany United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 12, Forest VA 24551. A celebration of life will be at 11 a.m., on Saturday, December 11, 2021. It will be held at Bethany United Methodist Church, 1720 Bethany Church Circle, Forest, VA. The Rev. Phil Showers will be officiating. The family will be receiving friends at 9:30 a.m. prior to the service. Interment to follow the service at Virginia Memorial Park. Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.