GASTONIA - Tony Ray Dula, 70, turned his eyes toward heaven on Saturday, Jan. 9, 2016, at Caromont Regional Medical Center, Gastonia.
He was born June 7, 1945, in Mecklenburg County, son of the late Edward Ray Dula and Agnes Laye Dula.
Tony was a member of Pisgah ARP Church and a Past Master of Masonic Lodge 668. He was a member of the Gaston County Flyers and flew airplanes. Tony was an avid hunter and also enjoyed family gatherings and loved holiday dinners. He met his wife, Janet Dula while in high school, and his favorite saying was, "He was ready to see what was on the other side, because he had already done everything on this side."
Along with his parents he was preceded in death by his sister, Kaye Pack; niece, Haley; nephew, Scott; and special cousins, Bobby, J.M., and Glenn.
Left to cherish his memories are his wife of 52 years, Janet Whitener Dula; son, Chris Dula and wife, Angie; daughter, Jennie Shidagis and husband, John; brother, Van Dula and wife, Peggy; sister, Amelia Pack and husband, Ronnie; grandchildren, Michael, Trey, Cathy Lee, Andy, Maggie; great-grandchildren, Nathan, Raegan, Jonathan, and Jackson; numerous nieces, nephews, and friends; special dog, Brownie and cat, Hank.
A celebration of life service will be held 10 a.m. Saturday at Pisgah ARP Church, 3600 Linwood Road, Gastonia. Officiating will be Pastor Richard Lewis.
The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. after the service at the church.
Interment is private.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Pisgah ARP Church, 3600 Linwood Rd., Gastonia NC 28052.
Published in Gaston Gazette on Jan. 13, 2016
Linda Sue Weaver (Muse)
I am so sorry to hear about Tony's passing. My heart and love go out to Janet and their children.
Charles Keith Gray
So very sorry to hear of Tony's passing...hadn't seen him in a few years since we moved but will always remember the great times we had and all the things we got into over our childhood and through high school..our thoughts and prayers go out to Janet and the family ...rest in peace my ole friend
William Nicholas Query
I am so sorry to hear about Tony's passing. All of us that grew up in the Gardner Park and Thomas Acres area played hard on a daily basis. Tony always had a great sense of humor, I can still hear his laughter. Rest in peace my friend in the arms of our Lord.
Carolyn Jean Elliott (Lingerfelt)
So sorry to hear of Tony's passing. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to Janet and her family. I met Tony in high school and had a couple of classes with him. Always a jokester and a fun-loving guy. I'm sure all who knew him will miss his laughter.
Jewell Hill (Hill-Loock)
Janet, I am thinking of all of you and wishing you comfort in the good memores we all share.
Much love,
Jewell
Virginia Ann Beam (Harrison)
So sorry to hear of Tony's passing. I remember him from high school as a very fun loving person. My thoughts and prayers are with Janet and the family.
James Reid Pressley
Jim and I express our sincere sympathy to Janet and their family. May be rest in peace.
Lynn Leroy Stewart
Tony is a very memorable person. He was always positive and fun. For what he has been through very tough also. I don't know how many people realize that he was related to " Tom Dooley" of Kingston Trio fame. I traced his lineage and it is true. We will miss you Tony
Jacqueline V. Wilkins (Pyles)
Tony Dula and his girlfriend Janet Whitener dated with me and my boyfriend Pete Pyles in high school. One Saturday we dated to Lake Lure and Chimney Rock and had a memorable time - young, carefree and just enjoying life. Tony smooched on Janet and she would always giggle. Good times and good memories will never be forgotten. Dearest Janet, may God give you and the children comfort and strength.
Love,
Pete and Jackie Pyles
Mary Milum Owens (Lancaster)
I am so sorry to learn of Tony's death. So glad I was able to see Janet and him at the last reunion. My condolences to her and the rest of his family.