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William HUDSON Obituary
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Ruby Hudson; his sister, Randall Morrow; his brother, John W. Hudson; and granddaughter, Jamie Lynn Hudson.
Bill was born and grew up in Tarboro, N.C., where he first started dating his beloved wife of 59 years, Louise. He was an Eagle Scout and a member of the National Eagle Scout Association. Later, as an adult, he continued his involvement, serving as a scoutmaster for several troops.
Bill attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where he was a member of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity. He enlisted in the Air Force in 1950 during the Korean War and, with the exception of one tour of duty in Fairbanks, Alaska, and one year in Udorn, Thailand, he spent most of his 20 years in the military at Langley Air Force Base in Hampton. After his retirement from the Air Force, Bill joined Pepsi Cola and served for 10 years as Personnel Director for the Southern Division and Plant Manager of the production plant in Newport News. Then, for the next 20 years, until his retirement, he worked as a realtor and was part owner of GMAC Realty.
Bill was a man of strong faith and was a longtime member of the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Hampton and served in many capacities; as a Deacon, an Elder, Chairman of the Board, Treasurer, President of the Christian Men's Fellowship, Pastoral Relations Committee Chair, and Trustee. In 2007, he was elected Elder Emeritus.
He and Louise loved to travel and did so often with many of their friends. He was always grateful for his Fun Tours 'family.' He was involved in a muscular dystrophy fundraising tournament ('Kids Playing for Kids') and served as treasurer and awards chair for 28 years. He reluctantly ended that board service, due to health reasons, after the 2008 season. This tournament raised a total of over a million dollars and was named the largest non-corporate fundraising sponsor in the country.
Left to mourn their loss and to celebrate Bill's life are his wife, Louise; his daughter, Lynn Hudson Saunders and her husband, Steve, of Mechanicsville; his son, Captain (Retired) Michael Hudson and his wife, Barbara, of Avon Lake, Ohio; six grandchildren, Samantha and Ben Saunders of Richmond, and Ryan, Tyler, Emily and Sarah Hudson of Avon Lake, Ohio; his church family; and a wide circle of friends, all of whom will miss his quick wit and jokes.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude and heartfelt appreciation to all of the people who have given their love and support during this difficult struggle and especially to the staff of Heartland Hospice of Newport News.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, Sept. 25, 2010, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home. A celebration of Bill's life will be held on Sunday, Sept. 26, at 2 p.m. at First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), 1458 Todds Lane, Hampton, VA 23666. The Reverends Marcia Fuson and Wayne Warren will be the officiants.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to First Christian Church at the above address.
Friends are encouraged to visit www.parklawn-woodfh.com to share memories and words of comfort with the family.
Arrangements are under the direction of Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home, 2551 N Armistead Ave., Hampton, VA 23666. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William HUDSON
February 2, 2011
Eulogy given by the Reverend Marcia Fuson, Minister of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Hampton, VA:
We have been waiting for this day. For Bill, the ultimate extrovert, and for you, Louise -- for you and Bill who have lived over 59 years full of get-up-and-go and give-it-all-you've-got -- these three years of quiet and confinement and decreasing life have been a painful, confusing journey.
Now this journey has ended. And a new one begins...
Some of you have known Bill for decades. My husband and I give thanks for just the 5 years we could share with Bill and Louise. I remember getting to know Bill when I first came here to First Christian. You know, I was the first female this church had ever called to serve as minister. And it hadn't been but a few weeks after I arrived...I was standing back there at the back greeting people after worship, and Bill came up to me and said, "I hope you won't take this the wrong way, but you have the best legs of any minister we've ever had!"
Oh that man did love a good laugh, and he loved life. He loved his family -- every one of you. He loved making "home," and making people feel "home." If you've been over to the Hudsons' you know what I'm talking about. You couldn't help but feel loved when you walked in the front door, if not by the welcome then by all of that good food and the delightfuly scattered busyness. This is what Bill and Louise built wherever they were - home. And after two other careers, Bill spent 20 years helping people like Sam and me build "home" -- a blessed place to laugh and cry, to welcome and to work, to celebrate and rejoice.
Our Lord Jesus knew all about home -- about those precious places for welcoming friends and family, for shared meals, for laughter and celebration and love. And so when his own dear friends began to worry over Jesus' future, began fearing they'd lose him -- Jesus said, "Do not let your hearts be troubled. In my Father's house there are many dwelling places. I am going to prepare a place for you, and I will come again to take you to myself...to my home."
What was true all those centuries ago is still true today. In our Father's house there are many dwelling places. I don't know if the Creator's house is up in heaven or hear on earth, if it's physical or spiritual -- I don't know. But I do know that God made each of us in his own image, so surely God's home exudes those things we have found most precious in the Hudsons' home on Queen Street -- welcome and warmth, gratitude and generosity, laughter and celebration...love. Love. And acceptance. And peace. The peace that comes of knowing you're home safe.
This is the promise of our Lord Jesus Christ. "In my Father's house there are many dwelling places. I am going to prepare a place for you, and I will come to take you to myself...to my home." This is the promise for you, and for you, and for me.
And for Bill. You know, I just have this vision. There's a door, wide open, light and conversation and laughter spilling out, and there's Bill, walking up to the threshold. He pauses, pulls his cheat sheet of favorite jokes out of his breast pocket and gives it a glance, then sticks it back inside his jacket and strides right on in. Oh, God is in for a good time!
Welcome home, Bill. Thanks be to God.
November 9, 2010
Dear Louise,
Lena and I were honored to have known Bill over the years at First Christian, at your home, and the many tours we took together. Bill and you were kind to include us in so many events. We will always remember Bill for his quick wit and his ability to make us laugh and smile even when each of us were sad or were having difficulties in our own lives. We are so grateful to have had such a caring friend. There will be grief, but with the help of God we pray for those he left behind and through His grace we pray your burdens will be eased. With our love, Lena & Mauro
November 1, 2010
Eulogy at the funeral given by Steve Saunders, son-in-law, for the family:
These last three years have been a long and difficult journey . . . one that we hope none of you ever experience. But over the last three years, Bill and Louise have demonstrated a strength of faith, strenth of character, strength of commitment and love that is an incredible legacy for our family. During this struggle, I have often stood in amazement at their ability to keep going day after day, especially after it had become clear that the best days were behind them. . . Louise, for what you and Bill have taught us, we shall be eternally grateful.
Another life lesson has been about the love, compassion, and commitment of others. . . church, family, friends, and others who have given so selflessly. And while I know that there have been many, many folks, there are a few who's efforts and support have been especially remarkable: Toney Gilbert, Syreeta Williams, Tanicia Banks, Sheena Collins, Rodney Watkins, Taylor Goode, Conrad Compton, Bob Chinan, and Lou Ensley. Please forgive me if I have not mentioned you although I know that no one has given their love and support for the sake of recognition. And just in case you don't think that angels walk among us, I will be happy to introduce you to my sister-in-law, Barbara, who defines unconditional love and commitment.
Bill Hudson was a fine man; a good husband, father, and grandfather; a strong Christian; and a good friend. He loved his wife and his famiy more than words would allow him to say and he did what he could to make this world a better place. And, as you most certainly know, he was a wiseguy. . . always with a joke, a story, or a wisecrack. . . and as we celebrate his life and remember his qualities and his contributions, I'd say it would be a tribute if we could do that with a smile.
On behalf of the family, thank you all so much for being here.
October 24, 2010
Dear Louise,
I wanted you to know you continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. Bill endeared himself to everyone he met -- he was such an inspiration! The beautiful church service was a fitting tribute to an exceptional man. You have wonderful memories to treasure and I hope to see you soon.
Fondly,
Gloria Newby
October 24, 2010
Notice of donation made to the Gideons International to place 5 Bibles in memory of Bill Hudson.
Dear Louise,
My love and prayers go out to you. I honor your love and commitment to your dear husband.
How long do you think it will take for Bill to set up a tour of heaven?!
I thank God for all of our fun memories.
Love, Barbara Smith
October 24, 2010
Printed in Card:
Our thoughts are with you.
May it help in your time of sadness to know we are thinking of you and share your sorrow.
With Deepest Sympathy to all of you,
Love,
Brenda, Webb, and Christian Bell
Dear Louise & family,
We are so sorry to hear about Bill. He was always interested in Webb ("Spidey") -- always asking about his work.
Bill holds a special place in our hearts. Not only through church happenings but through the Realty as well. He helped us buy our 1st home!
We think of Bill with fond memories!
October 24, 2010
Printed in sympathy card:
With sympathy in the loss of your father.
There really are no words to soothe a loss that is felt so deeply,
Though may it comfort you to remember that your father has left the best of himself behind...
...in your memory, in your heart, in your soul and in you.
May love and comfort surround you, and may you feel peace deep within your heart.
With Deepest Sympathy
Love, Bubba and Nancy Crone
Dear Lynn & Steve,
You have been in our thoughts and prayers. May you be comforted knowing he is no longer suffering. Your Dad was a wonderful Christian man. I know you will cherish all the wonderful memories.
The memorial service was very nice and a true tribute to a great father and husband. our love -- Nancy
October 24, 2010
Dear Louise,
See and I want you to know how much we appreciated our time with you and Bill. Seeing you with him at Mammasan's Restaurant, the New Country Chinese Buffet, and at home was always a treat for See because Bill showed her how special the time he spent in Thailand was to him. She greatly appreciates the beautiful momentoes of Thailand you and Bill gave her and she liked having an opportunity to speak a little Thai with Bill.
Bill was really fortunate to have you and all of your family and friends helping and supporting him throughout his long time of illness and suffering. It must have comforted him to know how supportive you were and how willing to sacrifice for his welfare. Special appreciation and respect have to go to Lynn and Barb for their extraordinary efforts and the love they showed him.
We both miss Bill and hated to see his physical and mental suffering and also the toll it took on you. However, we will always remember his cheerfulness and genuine kindness and friendliness.
Louise, you are in our thoughts and we are pulling for you to have a strong recovery and many more happy years with your family.
"Sawadee" to our friend, Bill.
Love always,
Your friends, Bill and See
Julie Braley
October 18, 2010
On behalf of the Hampton Roads MDA, we would like to remember and thank Mr. Hudson for his dedication to fighting MD through his work with the Peninsula Baseball Tournament. He will be missed!
October 17, 2010
Our Memories of Bill,
Bill, Louise and the children to the church while he was serving in the Air Force. They became active members and were received with our enthusiastic support. over the span of two more careers we saw his dedication to his work. Likewise, his dedication to the church demonstrated his love for God & Christ.
Bill's good nature and infectious smile endeared him to us. He always encouraged us to enjoy fellowship at church, his home, local concerts and trips to other places. His satisfaction was in our enjoyment. All of us at church appreciate his work in the many capacities in which he served.
Bill is missed not only by his lovely wife, his dear children Lynn and Mike, but by everyone in our church family.
Lori Woods
October 17, 2010
Louise, Mike & Lynn,
I hope you know how much I loved Bill and what he has meant to me and my family! His passing has left a deep sadness in my heart, but some relief at the same time knowing he is no longer in pain.
I know many people think the relationship my family had with Bill centered around the MD Tournament where he was fondly known to all as the "Money Man," but it goes back so much farther than that.
I can remember being snowed in at East Carolina University for a high school swim meet (where I was too young to compete Mike) and playing cards for hours with Bill in the wrestling room. Our families spent many hours together by pools, where it really all began.
But there were the parties at Mom & Dad's house and the Hudson's. Always great food! And the cook outs in the Hudson backyard. And the concerts which brought such joy and passed down to the next generation of my family with Perry enjoying them as well. Bill never forgot us when he had extra tickets.
The Hudson's were there at all the major events in my life, Bill always having some joke to tell us all or a hug if that was the need. He always knew what we needed and provided the laugh or comfort to enjoy or get us through.
And of course there was the Tournament, where we would never have had the success we have had without Bill joining our ranks. I remember the first couple of tournaments when Mom & I counted money on her bed...imagine if that had continued had Bill not volunteered. He saved Mom & me, but he saved the tournament so it could continue. He was meticulous in his counting of every penny (with Louise's help) and his record keeping. He knew it all, and to this day I have no idea! What I do know is there is no bigger "Million Dollar Member" than Bill, he is the reason we got there and I never thanked him enough. And let's not forget that he made sure that the tournament had the most beautiful awards! So much of the MD Tournament is a part of Bill, and we will continue not just in tribute to Mom, but now Bill. He has made sure that we can go on in how he took Valerie under his wing and taught her the ropes. And I loved him for that as much as anything.
Bill called me the "Mouth of the South" for good reason I suppose. He was proud of me and my family for how we carried on after Mom passed away. He loved to listen to Perry sing and he picked on Kelsie just like he did me while I was growing up. My kids loved Bill and knew what he meant to me and the tournament that they loved.
My memories of Bill will be with me my entire life. I loved him and love each of you. He will be missed by so many, everyone loved and respected Bill, but he will be especially missed by me as he has been there for most of my life. The only consolation in his passing is he will be free to be on the go again, pain free and full of the zest for life that he always had. He is counting money for sure, telling jokes, organizing events and entertaining everyone in heaven. There is a baseball tournament or swim meet or concert going on, and Bill is in the middle of it taking care of everyone with a joke or a hug as needed.
Bill was a wonderful man! My deepest sympathy goes out to you all. Please know that we share in your grief and loss as we feel it deeply as well.
My love to the Hudson family, but mostly my thanks for sharing Bill with my family. I love you all.
Raymond Oliver
October 14, 2010
The Celebration of life
For William Michael Hudson
First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
September 26, 2010 2 P.M.
Comments by Rev. Raymond E. Oliver
Frances and I have known Bill and Louise for over forty- six years. Bill and Louise were married over here at Langley one year and six days before we were married. Louise, I am surprised you all made it, from the tales Bill told me about your courtship. He said he would pick you up for a date then you would sit in the garage while he worked on his motorcycle.
This congregation began in 1888, and in 1890 constructed the first brick church in Newport News, downtown on 30th street. We relocated here in 1961. In February of 1964 the Hudsons, Hutchesons and a large group of people joined us. Since that time Bill has held almost every position in the church, including Chairman of the Deacons and Elders, assistant secretary of the Church School Treasurer, Trustee, Chairman of the Board and Congregation. Less know, he was a member of the sanctuary committee which in the early seventies transformed this space from a multi - purpose room to the beautiful sanctuary it is today.
Bill's commitment to God, Christ and the church was the foundation of his whole life of commitment. He loved Louise and his family. He was so proud of his children, Lynn and Michael both of whom I had the privilege of baptizing and marrying. Michael, I remember Bill saying he thought he would have to build a room on the house to put all the swimming medals you won. He was so pleased you went on to the Coast Guard Academy and now your son is there. He was equally proud of Steve and Barbara and your grandchildren. They all rise up and call him blessed.
Christmas was Bill's favorite time of the year. He always decorated his tree and house on December 1. Who can forget those famous open houses with the delicious food made by Louise? They often followed a concert at Fort Monroe for which Bill had gotten us all tickets.
Bill was committed to his country, having served twenty years in the Air Force, mostly at Langley, with tours to Alaska and Thailand. When he retired in 1971 we were happy to know they planned to stay in town. He then worked for nine years for Pepsi Cola, which meant that no church function went without plenty of Pepsis. Diet Pepsi is still Frances' favorite drink. After that he went into real estate and sold our house for us just as we moved into The Chesapeake Retirement Community.
Bill was the unofficial social director at church always getting tickets for military concerts, taking groups to Rocky Top Theater in NC, and many other travels. He had a wonderful sense of humor. Frances observed he was always impeccably dressed.
Through his long struggle with pain he still managed to get dressed and make it to church until it was no longer physically possible.
So on your last trip, Home to God, Bill, we say, thank you for a wonderful life and your inspiring commitment to God, Christ, the church, your family, your country your work and your community. “Well done, thou good and faithful servant!�
Linda Elrod
October 13, 2010
Dear Louise,
I knew Bill for years even though I only saw him 10 days in August at tournament. Sometimes late at night at the Phoebus ballfield he would come by to update our goal and pick up money he would stop by my annoucing booth and tell me his latest joke. He always put a smile on my face and at the end of the tournament he had a great way of keeping us in suspense to see the final total. He is up there with Sandra keeping books. Please know that he was respected and admired by all at our annual tournament. We will miss him
October 13, 2010
Hudson Family, Bill was a special person. I remember Bill as the wonderful treasurer of the MD Baseball Tourn.! It was my pleasure to pick up money, count, and deposit it when Bill and Louise would go on their trips. Bill always had everything very organized for me. He will be greatly missed.
Trish and Buddy Denton
Valerie Lavinder
October 13, 2010
Louise and family, you have our deepest sympathy. Bill will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. He was so important to the MD tournament. I will remember him as my mentor for the MD treasurer position. I learned so much from Bill. He and I had fun counting the money, with Louise working on the banners, at the championship games while he told jokes. Bill was a special man.
October 12, 2010
Eulogy at the funeral:
I want to share four memories of my friend, Bill Hudson.
First memory -- Bill Hudson the warm and faithful ambassador of his church. Bill was one of the first people to welcome me into this congregation almost 30 years ago. Very soon after my first visit, he invited me to a Sunday School class party at his house and he made sure that I was introduced to everyone present. Since that time, I have seen him do the same for other newcomers, like Sean and Becky McDonald as one example.
Second memory -- Bill the realtor. He thoroughly covered every detail -- except for the location of the house we were supposed to see. Bill was the world's worst navigator and although I was the newcomer, I found that we could save a lot of time if I did the navigation. He could not navigate the roads and he sure could navigate the paperwork.
Third memory -- Bill the organizer. For many years, Bill organized week-end trips to the Outer Banks. All we had to do was give Bill a "yes" or "no" and he took care of all the details. all except the payment, of course.
Fourth Memory -- Bill the dessert eater. He loved his sweets. His premise was that a good meal must be built around the dessert. It is reasonable to assume that at this very moment, Bill is checking out the dessert table in Heaven, especially the banana pudding.
He will be missed.
John Matthews
October 12, 2010
The day I met you, Louise, changed my life. Then to get to come and visit you and Bill and, in a way, become a part of your extended "family" blessed my heart to no end.
I will always remember Bill's quick grin and gentle spirit. Being with the two of you, seeing your deep love and affection for each other and for your family, has had a profound affect on me. It's a true picture of God's love.
Thank you for sharing your home and love with me and I look forward to spending many more special moments with you, Louise. Love, Wendy
God Bless you and Keep You.
Rob & Tina Cuthrell
October 4, 2010
Louise, you and your family remain in our prayers. We are eternally grateful for the wisdom and the humor Bill shared with the Salty Christian class. You both have taught our class so much by your lives! We love you and are so glad to be part of the family of God. To have family like you and Bill. May the Lord grant you peace and never ending beautful memories and may His love and grace sustain you. God Bless You!
Beth Godbolt
October 4, 2010
Dearest Lynn and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Knowing your father is in a beautiful, peaceful place will hopefully sustain you.
Love,
Beth Godbolt
Pat Johnson
October 3, 2010
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Sonie Statzer
October 3, 2010
My deepest sympathy to Louise and family.
Bill was a wonderful, caring person with a great sense of humor. All who knew him will have many fond memories.
Jacque & George White
October 1, 2010
Louise and your special family: I am thinking about all of you right now and I haven't been able to stop thinking about Bill. I came to love you two so much and especially what you stood for, the great great beautiful life you made together. I am mourning his loss and praying for strength for you Louise. God is Good. At least, we have that!
Love, hugs and prayers to each of you.
September 30, 2010
Dear Louise, So sorry to hear of Bill's passing. We know how dear you were to each other. You and your family will be in our thoughts & prayers in your time of sorrow. Pls remember wonderful memories and they will help you thru this difficult time.
Jean & Marty Richardson, Newport News, VA
Todd And Susan Dunkle
September 29, 2010
Dear Mike and Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. We did not know your father but from what we have read he was a very caring,loving and giving man. It's funny how those qualities are very much like yours to Mike. We are very grateful for your friendship and pray for you and your family during this difficult time.
Love Todd and Susan Dunkle
Ron Milovac
September 29, 2010
Dear Louise and Family,
I'm sorry I was not able to go to the viewing and funeral. I hope you know how much Bill meant to me. He was so supportive of the music program at church, even though he often joked about forgetting his hearing aids. I will always remember his sense of humor. He was one of the funniest people I have ever met, and I know a lot of funny people. He will never be replaced in the church and community, but he will continue to live in our hearts.
Barbara Bebout
September 28, 2010
CAPT Hudson, I was so sorry to hear of your father's passing. You will be in my thoughts and prayers as the days go on. It's hard losing a parent. My love to you and your family in this sorrowful time. Barbara Bebout (USCGR, RET)
William Schmidt
September 28, 2010
Captain Hudson and Family,
I want to express my deepest sympathy and to let you know you and yours are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sue Linville
September 27, 2010
Captain Hudson,
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. Your memories will always keep him close. Sue Linville
Jan Lewis Poynter
September 26, 2010
Dear Lynn, Louise and Family, I'm thinking of you all and remembering Mr Hudson at Northampton Pool !! And I will always remember him protesting the outcome of my events at the Peninsula Meet held at Mallory Pool - he stood up for me and that meant so much. He was so involved in whatever he chose to do...Jan Lewis Poynter
John Williamson
September 25, 2010
Dear Louise and Family,
I am so sorry to hear of your great loss. I will always remember Bill as an active, engaged, and very smart man who loved and admired his family and everyone he knew. He fought the good fight right up to the end and now his new "home" will be even better than the earthly home that has "prepared" him for this awesome "eternity"!
We will all miss Bill, but will also carry the inspiration and ambition he shared with us until we also meet him again in heaven one day!
Your family will be in my prayers over the coming days and weeks!
Your friend, John Williamson
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