Shirley Ann Hudson

Shirley Ann Hudson was born on May 7, 1936 in London, Ontario to Marjorie and Lenard Ridley. She died peacefully at home at 86 years of age on October 22, 2022 in Bloomfield Township, Michigan surrounded by loved ones. Shirley grew up in London, Ontario with her three siblings Bill, Mary Lou, and Harold. She was the third born child and loved all of her older and younger siblings dearly.

Shirley received her registered nurse training at St. Joseph Hospital and fondly remembered her times in nursing school with her classmates.

Shirley met her husband Charles “Red” Mitchell Hudson in Grand Bend, Ontario while Red was on weekend leave from the US Navy. They married in London in 1957 and soon moved to Michigan. After having her six children, Shirley proudly became a naturalized American citizen in July of 1969.

Shirley was most proud of her family. Before she turned 30, Shirley had six children in seven years: Tom, Yvonne, Tim, Cindy, Cathy, and Ken. She was an exceptional wife and mother. She cared deeply for her children, siblings, grandchildren, neighbors, and friends throughout her life. Shirley always made time for everyone, especially her twelve grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She had a huge heart and caring for loved ones came very naturally to her.

Later, Shirley and Red spent their summers on the golf course and winters in Homosassa Springs, Florida. Shirley’s children and grandchildren loved visiting her and Red in Florida. The Hudsons also spent several years in Red’s home state of Erin, Tennessee, but moved back to Michigan to be closer to their children and extended families. Throughout all of this, Shirley and Red bravely supported each other through various health and illness battles.

Shirley enjoyed the simpler things in life and found respite with her husband Red at their cottage in Dryden, Michigan. Shirley and Red would regularly host their large family for fun-filled gatherings that almost always included a big pot of chili, a boat ride, and a bonfire. Shirley’s energy lit up every room and she had an incredible sense of humor. She treasured Johnny Cash, the Wizard of Oz, and her beloved doll collection.

She is survived by her brother Harold Ridley and his wife Jeanatte; her brother-in-law Dan Lopez; her sister-in-law Doris Ridley; her three sons Tom, Tim, and Ken; her three daughters Yvonne, Cindy, and Cathy; her twelve grandchildren and five great-grandchildren (all of whom are her favorites); and several nieces and nephews in the US and Canada. She was preceded in death by her husband Red. Her family finds comfort knowing Shirley and Red are together again dancing to “Walk the Line” by Johnny Cash.

A private, family service will held to celebrate Shirley.