Dr. Robert Earl Dudley III

Dr. Robert E. Dudley, III, 71, also known fondly as “The Music Man”, is predeceased by his mother, Rita Clifford, his father, Robert Dudley II, & brother, Paul Dudley. He is survived by his two sons, Robert IV, 33, and Anthony, 29, & his longtime partner, Kary Ortiz.

The eldest of nine siblings, he attended St. Paul’s Catholic School, Bishop Barry, & St. Petersburg High School. He later attended St. Petersburg Junior College, before earning his bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida. He later received his Master’s degree in Theology, before eventually earning his doctoral degree in Philosophy from Nova Southeastern University.

An avid musician, Bob used music to touch the lives of many: He frequented the stages of St. Petersburg venues such as The Blueberry Patch, Chattaway’s Restaurant, either with his band, The Joy of Dudley Daniels, or as a solo musician. He was known for being a compassionate and wise educator, especially in music, teaching guitar and piano lessons to many young local artists.

He used his extensive education to revitalize youth and music ministries all across Florida, forever a champion of the arts and their healing power. Bob worked with autistic youth, and used his deep passion for music and education to change many lives over a varied career. A beloved counselor, musician, father, brother, uncle, and friend, Bob will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.neptunesociety.com/location/tallahassee-cremation for the Dudley family.