Thomas James Hudson

Thomas James Hudson, aged 67, of Spring Hill, Florida, passed away peacefully on October 30, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on October 7, 1958, in Springfield, Massachusetts, Tom was the son of the late Thomas and Jean Hudson. As the son of a B-52 tail gunner, he grew up in a proud Air Force family, residing on several bases before settling in Florida, where his lifelong affinity for the ocean began.

Tom earned his Bachelor's degree in Marine Biology and commenced his career in public service studying shellfish for the State of Florida. He subsequently joined the Food and Drug Administration, where he served as an inspector, traveling extensively and dedicating his career to protecting public health before retiring.

A true outdoorsman, Tom found solace in fishing, spearfishing, hunting, and photography-particularly offshore, where he was most at home. His extensive knowledge of Florida's bays and waters was unparalleled, and he passed that love of the ocean on to his children and grandchildren.

Tom was a devoted Christian, a loving husband, and a loyal friend. He lived his life with faith, purpose, and principle-always prioritizing family and teaching by example. He is survived by his beloved wife, Kimberly Rexrode Hudson, and his children Rebecca Hudson, Thomas Craig Hudson, Erika Hudson Phipps, and Emily Hudson. He also leaves behind his sister, Linda Hudson Delarios, and numerous grandchildren who were the light of his life.

Those who knew Tom will remember him as a legend, a hero, and a fiercely loyal family man-tough on the outside, yet deeply loving and generous at his core. His legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the laughter he shared, and the love he gave without hesitation.

A celebration of his life will be held at Kent-Forest Lawn Funeral Home, 2403 Harrison Avenue, Panama City, Florida 32405, on Saturday, November 8, 2025. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. (Central Time), followed by a funeral service from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (Central Time).

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations be made to the Leukemia Research Foundation (LRF) in Tom's memory. Donations may be made online at www.leukemiarf.org/donate or mailed to: Leukemia Research Foundation, 191 Waukegan Road, Suite 105, Northfield, IL 60093.