Our sweet and precious angel, Mary Nell Tudyk, 93, of Natalia, Texas, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in Heaven, on Sunday, June 14, 2026. She is now joyfully reunited with her beloved husband, Paul Tudyk, with whom she shared 64 wonderful years of marriage.
Mary Nell was born on December 3, 1932, in Lockhart, Texas, to Henry and Lillie Rackley. Faith was the foundation of Mary Nell’s life. As a young child, she attended the Presbyterian Church in Natalia before becoming a lifelong member of Natalia Baptist Church, where she faithfully worshiped and served throughout her life. In her school years, Mary Nell enjoyed participating in basketball, volleyball, baseball, track, and pep squad activities. She graduated from Natalia High School in 1950.
During her life, she worked for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company and Levin’s Factory in Devine.
Mary Nell married Paul on July 11, 1952. They had four children together. She dedicated herself to her family as a homemaker, great cook, canning fruits and vegetables, planting flowers, babysitter, seamstress, and provided ironing services for many members of her community. She remained active and involved throughout her life, especially in her church.
Mary Nell is preceded in death by her parents Henry W. Rackley, Mary Lillie Yarbrough Rackley, her husband Paul R. Tudyk, her daughter Carolyn Ann Tudyk, her brother Henry “Sonny” Rackley, and her grandson Ryan Neal Tudyk.
She is survived by her 3 children, Richard Tudyk (Joyce), Cheryl Tudyk Day, Karen Tudyk Baird; her 6 grandchildren, Michael Tudyk (Jennie), Stacy Day Wiggins (John), Bryan Day (Krystal), Stephany Day McDougal (Chester), Chris Baird, Kevin Baird; her 11 great grandchildren, Audrey Tudyk, Adam Tudyk, Neal Tudyk, Maggie Tudyk, Skyler Wiggins Kingston (Mickey), Paisley Wiggins, Lilly Wiggins, Peyton Day, Paxton Day, Mattix McDougal, Lexi McDougal; her 2 great-great grandchildren, Everly Kingston, Emmery Kingston; extended family and friends. Where her love, kindness, and faith will live forever.
With grateful hearts, the family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to the nurses, staff, and Chaplin of Enhabit Hospice, Abilene, TX. The loving care, comfort, kindness, and compassion they provided to our precious Mama, Mammaw, and Maw was a true blessing to both Mary Nell and our entire family during this difficult time.
Visitation will be held at Natalia Memorial Funeral Home on Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., located at 2048 TX-132, Natalia, TX 78059.
Funeral services will be held at Natalia Baptist Church on Friday, June 26, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., located at 301 Pearson St., Natalia, TX 78059.
Graveside service will be held at Devine Evergreen Cemetery
Mary Nell Tudyk
