Merrel Ray Jude died on Friday September 28, 2018 in Winston-Salem, NC. He was born in Kentucky to Elmer and Vergie Stepp Jude. He graduated from Lenore High School and was a dock worker for Smith's Transfer Company. He was a lifelong resident of Columbus, Ohio and has lived in Pfafftown, NC for 13 years. Merrel was an avid hunter and fisherman and a faithful member of Hope Community Church. Merrel was predeceased by his parents, Elmer Jude and Vergie Stepp Jude; brother Elmer Jude Jr.; sisters Margaret Bailey, Thelma Dotson, and Bonnie Kinder; daughter baby Jude; son-in-law Denver Elkins; sisters-in-law Beulah Jude and Nollie Jude; brothers-in-law Edgar Estepp, Randall Adkins, William Childers, and Ray Kettleman. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Loretta Adkins Jude; daughter Debbie (Steve) Martin; son Anthony (Heather) Jude; grandsons (his pride and joy) Cody Jude, Caleb Jude and Corbin Jude; brothers Jack Jude and Bob (Kathy) Jude; sisters Mildred Estepp and Gloria (Bob) Taylor; brothers-in-law Russell Bailey, James Kinder, and Robert (Oretha) Adkins; and sisters-in-law Polly Childers, Gladys Kettleman, Wanda (Bob) Lowe, and Matilda Adkins. The service will be at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 30 at Hope Community Church, 4660 Brownsboro Road, in Winston-Salem. The viewing will be from 5:00 until 6:00 p.m. prior to the service. Bishop Paul Francis Lanier will be officiating. here will be an additional visitation from 6:00-8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 2 at O. R. Woodyard Funeral Home South Chapel, 1346 S. High St., Columbus, Ohio 43207. The graveside service will be at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 3 at Obetz Cemetery, 4301 Groveport Road, Obetz, Ohio 43207. The family would like to thank Hope Community Church and the staff at Silas Creek Rehab for their help during this difficult time. Online condolences may be made through www.salemfh.com Cemetery Details Obetz Cemetery 4455 Groveport Rd Obetz, OH 43207 Loading map Previous Events Graveside Service OCT 3. 12:00 PM (ET) Obetz Cemetery 4455 Groveport Rd Obetz, OH 43207 Loading map