A dedicated professional, Joanne retired as the Office Manager for the Sebastian County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. She was a devoted member of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Fort Smith.
She is survived by her husband James R. Hudgens, Sr., of the home; daughters, Dustine Watkins of Sallisaw, OK, and Deanne Steele (Jackie) of Fort Smith; son, Brad Patton (Glenda) of Fort Smith, AR; stepdaughters, Sherri Wyatt (Phil) of Virginia and Jamie Richardson (Jonathan) of Sallisaw, OK; stepsons, James R. Hudgens, Jr. (Theresa) of Sallisaw, OK and Robert Hudgens (Beth) of Missouri; brothers, Robert Robinson and Edward Robinson, both of California and Jerry Robinson of Wisconsin along with a legacy of numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, March 20, 2026, at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Ft. Smith, Arkansas with the committal service and placement of ashes to follow in the church columbarium.
In honor of Joanne’s life the family suggests in lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be sent to St. John’s Episcopal Church flower fund, alter guild, or choir fund at 214 N. Sixth Street, Ft. Smith, AR 72901.
