Henrietta R. Hudson

HUDSON Henrietta R. Hudson, the original ""Runaway Bride'', as a young woman cancelled plans for her wedding in a small Illinois town at the last minute and fled to New Orleans, LA to live a life drawn on a richer palette. She loved New Orleans and flourished here climbing as high as anyone could in her category for Social Services for the State of Louisiana. She was also head of the Food Stamp program. Henri, as her friends know her, served her country proudly, in the WAVES Armed Forces. She spent her time after retirement as a volunteer for the Aquarium, Audubon Zoo, Visitors Bureau, and ""Food for Friends.'' She loved the ""Peoples Program'' and even at advanced age was an instructor there in ""Tai Chi''. As an avid gardener, her garden at her Marigny residence was often photographed and appeared in several publications. A longtime member of the Bromeliad Society, she was often called upon to judge contests for best in show. She is survived by good friends who loved and cared for her and her rescue pooch, ""Lili''. A Memorial Ceremony will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, friends are asked to donate in her memory to the LA/SPCA at 1700 Mardi Gras Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70114.