Derek Lee Hudson

Derek Lee (Big D, D-rock) Hudson (32) of Columbiana, AL, was born July 9, 1992, and went to be with Jesus on November 1, 2024.
He is preceded in death by his mother: Teresa Hudson; his grandfather: Jesse Hudson; his grandparents: Terrence and Claire Carraway; and his aunt: Cathy Evers.
He is survived by his father: David Hudson; his brother: Brian Hudson; his sister: Kristy Criswell (Wesley); his grandparents: Rick and Sara Daniel; numerous beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and the most supportive friends.
A native of Florida, Derek was raised in Columbiana where he met lifelong friends through school, baseball, and life. He lived his final years in Galveston, Texas where he boasted 52 months of sobriety through complete abstinence. In Galveston, he was enveloped in a loving community consisting of pool sharks, golfers, bar patrons, homeless people, co-workers, addicts, and church family. Not one of them was ever a stranger. They felt the love of Jesus through a firm handshake or a strong hug.
Derek climbed cell phone towers for a living. His co-workers saw his dedication to the Lord and were inspired by his fervency. His employers admired his strong work ethic. By the grace of God and the honest labor of Ephesians 4:28, he was able to escape the captivity of streets and incarceration. He died the owner of a proud estate.
Derek loved golf, bowling, sports, motorcycles, taking peoples' money in pool, his dad's advice, his mother's patience, his brother's companionship, his sister's phone calls and pumpkin rolls. With a natural flare, he excelled at anything that interested him. Most of all, he loved his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Though Derek was called home young, Jesus saved his life. He stayed strong to the end and left earth full of joy and peace walking in the name of Jesus.
A visitation will be held on Monday, November 11, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Bethel Baptist Church in Columbiana, AL. A celebration of life will follow at 6:00 PM. He will be laid to rest on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at 2:00 PM (EST) at Forestlawn Cemetery in Cairo, GA.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that monetary donations be made to the addiction ministry of Derek's church, Church of the Living God, Galveston, TX. Donations can be made online at http://www.colg.org/give-online/. When prompted, add note "In memory of Derek Hudson for addiction ministry" or Mail check payable to COLG to 3315 7 Mile Road, Galveston, TX 77554.
Please sign online condolences at www.boltonfuneralhome.com.