
The Kinston community is grieving the loss of Darryl Dudley, a 52-year-old father and grandfather whose life was tragically cut short in a shooting at his East Bright Street home late Thursday night.
Darryl was a proud father of five and a loving grandfather who was eagerly awaiting the birth of twin grandchildren, which would have made him a grandfather of seven. His daughter, Yazenia, shared her heartbreak, remembering her father as her strength in difficult times.
Family members described Darryl as the heart of their gatherings—always quick with a joke, always lifting spirits. His cousin, Nydra Wilkes, recalled him as more than an uncle, but a father figure, “the life of the party and the family comedian.”
Those closest to him say Darryl was not involved in violence or conflict, making his passing even harder to comprehend. His absence leaves an irreplaceable void, but his memory will forever live on in the love of his family and the community that cherished him.