Elena Lelita Hudson

Elena Lelita Hudson was born on August 28, 1935, in Limón, Costa Rica, to the late Irene Victoria Myers and Nemiah Williams. She was the eldest of six children and spent part of her early years with her grandmother, Elma Myers, and extended family in Almirante, Panama. From a young age, Elena demonstrated strength, resilience, and a deep sense of responsibility, qualities that would define her life.

With a heart full of determination and love for her children, Elena made the courageous decision to migrate to the United States on February 7, 1970, settling in Huntington, New York, under the sponsorship of Ms. Lashing. In pursuit of a better life and greater opportunities for her family, she temporarily left her children in the care of relatives in Costa Rica until she could establish a foundation for them. Through perseverance and faith, she later became a proud United States citizen.

Elena dedicated many years of service as a Nurse Assistant at Long Island Jewish Hospital, where she cared for others with compassion, patience, and grace.

She shared an enduring love story with her husband, the late Jacinto Hudson, who preceded her in death on June 4, 2020. Their journey began at the Salvation Army School when Elena was 15 years old. Though life led them down different paths, they reunited years later in the United States and were married on February 11, 1981. Together, they built a life grounded in love and faith. Elena served faithfully as a choir member at Evergreen Baptist Church in Brooklyn, New York, while Jacinto served as an usher.

A strong woman of faith, Elena was a devoted child of Christ whose life reflected her belief in God. Her favorite scripture, “The joy of the Lord is my strength” (Nehemiah 8:10), was not only a verse she cherished, but one she lived by daily. After relocating to Stone Mountain, Georgia in 1997, she continued her spiritual journey at White Oak Hills Baptist Church.

Elena was lovingly known as “Nani” by her grandchildren and many others. She was the heart of her family, a devoted mother, wife, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, sister, and friend. She opened her home to those less fortunate, offering not only shelter but love, guidance, and encouragement. She found immense joy in spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, often sharing wisdom and speaking God’s word into their lives.

Elena was preceded in death by her husband, Jacinto Hudson; her children, Rosa (Alex) and Mario; and her stepson, Francisco Hudson.

She leaves to cherish her loving memory her children: Errol, James (Cindy), Carmen, Norma, Frank, and Hernan (Hope); 30 grandchildren: Leticia, Devon, Felicia, Tasha, Shawntel, Larissa, Louis, Frankie, Jennifer, Christopher, Ashley, Andrea, Angelica, Christian, Iyanna, Imari, Iyari, Johanna, Clarisse, Mia, Ethan, Shayne, Errol Jr., Elena, Ruth, Rodney, Kevin, Kendra, James, and Jamila; 44 great-grandchildren and 8 great-great-grandchildren; her brother, Adolpho (Pam), and sister Nelida; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, beloved church family, and friends.

Elena found joy in the simple and meaningful things in life. She enjoyed crossword puzzles, sewing, crocheting, and making jewelry, often creating beautiful, handmade pieces for those she loved. She had a special passion for gardening, nurturing life with the same love and care she gave to her family. Her giving spirit extended beyond her immediate community, as she made clothing and sent them to children in Africa who were less fortunate.

On Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026, Elena peacefully transitioned from this life, leaving behind a legacy of faith, sacrifice, love, and generosity.

Elena Lelita Hudson will be remembered for her strength, her unwavering faith, her nurturing spirit, and the boundless love she gave to all. Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and her legacy will continue to live on through the many generations she so beautifully shaped.