Roger Gene Hudson

Roger Gene Hudson, 72, of Albemarle, NC, passed away on August 29, 2025, when the only thing bigger than his personality-his heart-finally gave out. True to form, he left us with one final punchline-after years of telling us he wasn’t going to make it to the next holiday, he finally proved himself right.

Born June 2, 1953, to Krone “Wrendy” Hudson and Cannie Bell Hudson, Roger entered this world with a boisterous personality that never left.

He was known early on for riding his motorcycle through the halls of Albemarle High School and for not being “good enough” (according to the teachers) to date Darlene Biles. Luckily, she ignored the advice, and in 1973 Roger used her teaching paycheck to buy a backhoe-laying the foundation (literally) for a family business that grew into one of the largest pool companies and wholesale suppliers on the East Coast. Even after stepping away from his formal role, Roger could be found daily at his company, Hudson Pool Distributors, making sure everyone on the clock was actually working.

Everyone in town seems to have a “Roger Hudson” story, and Roger himself was the master storyteller of them all. His larger-than-life personality filled every room he entered. The only things he loved more than work were his children not spending money. He was known to generations of children as “Santa Claus,” to his grandkids as “Big Daddy,” and to his employees and community as a generous giver. His life motto was simple: “Work hard. Be decent.” He did-and he was.

Roger was happiest on a backhoe, sharp-tongued when needed, but always with a big heart for his family and community. His generosity was legendary: once taking an entire state-championship football team, their coaches, and cheerleaders on a cruise to the Bahamas just because he believed in showing people that they were bigger than their circumstances.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Darlene Biles Hudson; his children Matthew (Melanie) Hudson, Allison (Lenny) Mingle, and Suzanne (Justin) Carter; and his adored grandchildren Gavin, Cooper & Brody Hudson, Charlotte & Ryan Mingle, and Noah, Bronx, Cash and Grace Carter; siblings Joyce Lambert, Elaine Foreman, Harvey Hudson, and Paul Hudson. He also leaves behind countless nieces and nephews and his best friend Blair Lambert (Melinda). Roger was preceded in death by his parents, his son Will, and his sister Judy.

He will be remembered for his sharp wit, his big personality, and the lessons he instilled in generations of youth-sometimes with words, sometimes with deeds, and sometimes by example.

On Saturday, September 6th, from 3:00-5:00 PM, the family will host a Receiving of Friends - a casual gathering and opportunity to share stories and memories of Roger. This will be an informal time to celebrate his life together at Hilltop Farm  44157 Old Whitney Rd New London, NC 28127.

Roger will lie in state Sunday, September 7th, from 1:30-2:00 PM at West Albemarle Baptist Church, followed immediately by the funeral service at 2pm. A time of fellowship will follow the service.

Roger wouldn’t want you to waste money on flowers but he’d be happy for you to make a donation to Will’s Place, https://www.willsplacenc.org/donate-1 the nonprofit started in memory of his son.

His heart may have given out, but not before it gave all it had to his family, his community, and anyone lucky enough to cross his path. Roger left us with enough stories to last several lifetimes-and if you knew him, you know he’d want you to tell them, again and again.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Albemarle is serving the Hudson family.