Dudley Andrew Winstead

Dudley A. Winstead, 91, of Lake View Terrace, CA passed away on March 28, 2024. Born to Viola Wilcox and Harold Winstead, Dudley grew up with his sister, Mary Lee, in Long Beach, Glendale and Burbank before the family settled on the ranch in Lake View Terrace, California when he was about 10 years old.

After high school he married Ruth Anderson and joined the Marines to serve in the Korean War. Over the years he worked as a butcher, in construction, a reserve officer in the Los Angeles Police Department, security for Pierce College, Mission College, high level security for Lockheed Martin, and after retirement, volunteered at the LDS Bishop’s Storehouse.

He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints--from boy scout in the church troop as a youth to Sunday school teacher and 2nd counselor in the Bishopric in adulthood.

Often called “Dudley-Do-Right”, Dudley loved to hunt, fish, and ride horses. He competed in fast draw competitions and could spin a gun into his holster or hand-to-hand with ease. A consummate horseman, he helped form the LAPD mounted horse unit, serving at the Foothill Division. His shooting skills, discipline, and high standards led to numerous commendations, recognition, and awards.

He was a jokester with a laugh and smiling eyes that made connections with people wherever he went. He had a story to tell to those who wished to listen. His talents extended to whistling and singing—Danny Boy being one of his favorite songs to sing. He was a teacher of the skills and lessons he learned in life.

You did not want to be on his bad side. He had no patience for fools but he was generous in many ways. The grand and great grandchildren could count on him for fun time, teasing, setting up tetherball, water pistol fights or a card game. The love for his family and friends and their well-being was of utmost importance as well as his love for God and country. A proud American who stood for the Constitution and justice, he honored God, family, and the flag. Though missed, we know heaven is safe with him guarding the gates.

He is survived by Ruth, his wife of 71 years, daughters Diana (Alex) Bernard, Debra Winstead, son, Dennis (Gabrielle) Winstead, 6 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, and others who claim him as grandpa. He is preceded in death by his parents, Harold Winstead and Viola Wilcox Roundy, his sister, Mary Lee Vorhies, and granddaughter, Eilish Winstead.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to Sunland Ward with a memo to ‘Young Men’s Program’ is appreciated. (Church address is 7955 Hillrose Street, Sunland, CA 91040.)