Boyd Fudge

Boyd William Fudge, a devoted family man and passionate farmer, passed away at the age of 91, on June 16, 2026, at Ringgold County Hospital in Mt. Ayr, Iowa, with his daughters by his side. Born on September 17, 1934, in Corning, Iowa, he was the son of Everett William and Bernadine Olive (Chapman) Fudge.

Boyd grew up attending country schools in Adams County and the Corning Public Schools until he was drafted into the United States Army. He served for two years, stationed on the Fort Sill Army Base in Oklahoma. After his military service, Boyd pursued his love of agriculture by purchasing a farm in Adams County, Iowa, in 1956. He dedicated himself to farming with great care, raising crops and livestock until his retirement in 1978.

Following his retirement from farming, Boyd and Cleo embarked on a new chapter by opening Fudge Town Interiors, a store located on Corning’s main street. Together, they managed the business with the same dedication he had shown on the farm until they moved to Arizona in 1995. For 30 years, Boyd was a permanent resident of Mesa, Arizona, where he enjoyed spending his winters, along with time spent in San Diego, California.

Boyd treasured moments spent with his family at Sun Valley Lake in Ellston, Iowa over the years. His greatest pride came from his marriage to Cleo Belle (Travis), with whom he shared a life filled with love starting from their wedding in Brooks, Iowa, on August 24, 1952. Together, they had four children: Terri, Marty, Jim and Tammi. Boyd was most proud of his children and the family they created.

He is survived by his daughter, Terri (Jim) Walter of Ellston, Iowa; his son, Jim Fudge of Mesa, Arizona; and his daughter, Tammi (Larry) Riley of Sun Lakes, Arizona. Boyd also leaves behind three grandchildren: Amy Wetzel and her significant other Klint Maeder of Corning, Iowa; Jessica (Jarin) Bjerke of Tempe, Arizona; and Ryan (Maddie) Schachte of London, England. Two great-grandchildren also carry on his legacy.

Boyd was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Cleo, in 2011; his son, Marty Fudge; his sister, Linda Fudge; and his parents.

Boyd William Fudge’s life was marked by hard work, love for his family, and a deep connection to the land. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and loved him.

Memorial Services will be held at a future date in Mesa, Arizona. In lieu of flowers, Memorial contributions may be sent directly to: EveryStep Hospice, 3000 Easton Blvd., Des Moines, IA 50317 in memory of Boyd Fudge.

Pearson Family Funeral Service & Cremation Center of Corning is in charge of local arrangements.