Lt. Col. Donald Wayne Hudson

Fondly know as "Don", "Papa", "Face", and "Darling" he lived life to the fullest. Whether he was driving his SUV across the country to enjoy the beautiful scenery of its deserts and mountains, spending time with his children and grandchildren, or watching the Dallas Cowboys, Texas Longhorns, or San Antonio Spurs, he strived for perfection in himself and others. Don was born in Dallas, Texas on July 25, 1937 to Beatrice and J.B. Hudson. He graduated George West High School in 1954 and he attended Abilene Christian College from 1954 to 1956, before dropping out of school to marry the girl next door. Don married the love of his life, Mary Janis Morgan, on May 24, 1957 at Roscoe, Texas. They traveled the world together, moving 32 times while creating many cherished memories. He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Mary of Austin, Texas; his children, Julie Maupin and her husband David of Corona, California, and Lanny Hudson of Guthrie, Oklahoma. Don is also survived by sisters-in-law, Sue Prime, June Grayson, and Kay Brazil. He was a hero to all of his grandchildren, Chelsea Hudson Basore and husband, John, Michelle and Breanne Maupin, as well as great-granddaughters, Calista and Camilla Basore. His two poodles, Rusty and Lucy, also adored him. Shortly after he and Mary married, Don enlisted in the Air Force, arriving at Lackland AFB for basic training on October 3, 1958. He earned the rank of Technical Sergeant before returning to the States to complete his education. After completing Officer’s Training School and Signal Intelligence Technical Training, Don was assigned to Turkey for his first tour as an officer. He retired in October 1988 with many decorations after 30 years of service. Don loved the Air Force, his country, and his profession. He always said those were the best years of his life. After his Air Force life, Don worked for the Texas Department of Health and Texas Department of Human Services until his final retirement in May 2003. Don always valued his many friendships and wanted to be a beacon of light to everyone who knew him. His charismatic personality endeared him to everyone. His family and friends will gather to celebrate his life from 6.00 pm - 8:00 pm on Thursday, January 31, 2008 at Don and Mary's home in Austin. Funeral services and Interment will be held at 2:15 pm on February 1, 2008 at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, San Antonio, Texas. Memorials may be made in his name to the Humane Society-SPCA Austin, 124 West Anderson Lane, Austin, Texas 78752.