James Albert Hudson

After attending the University of Tennessee, Al joined the Marine Corps and served in World War II in the Pacific. After the war, Al went to work at TVA as an engineer, eventually becoming head mechanical engineer. He retired in 1980.

Al had a passion for woodworking. He was a master of his craft, creating beautiful pieces for those he loved and teaching numerous people the intricacies of fine furniture making both in his home shop and at Woodcraft. He was a juried member of the East Tennessee Woodworkers Guild which created a Master Class award in his honor in recognition of his life-long contributions to woodworking and his continuing pursuit of perfection.

Al was also a scratch golfer, winning numerous tournaments in the East Tennessee area. Although he was multi-talented, he was perhaps best known for his unwavering optimism and quick wit. Al truly enjoyed every day and continued to make new friends well into his 90s.

Al was a devout Christian and was a member of The Episcopal Church of The Ascension for over 60 years where he served on the vestry and sang in the choir.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Wiley and Lucille Hudson, his beloved wife of 55 years, Ruth Whittenburg Hudson, brothers Harry, Charles, and Joseph David (J.D.) Hudson, and sister Anna Margaret Hudson Hicks.

He is survived by his two daughters, Emily Pickering and Rosemary Overton (Randy) and his four grandchildren Will Pickering, Katie Overton, Michael Overton, and Rebecca Smith (Matt). He also leaves behind his sister-in-law Beverly Hudson, nephews Guy Hudson, David Hudson, and Mabbett Mathews, and niece Charlene Johnson.

A celebration of his life will be held on Tuesday, March 16, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at The Episcopal Church of The Ascension at 800 S. Northshore Drive in Knoxville followed by burial with military honors at the East Tennessee Veterans Cemetery at 5901 Lyons View Pike at 1:00 p.m. Seating at the church will be limited to 120 people due to Covid-19. Reservations can be made at https://www.knoxvilleascension.org/save-a-seat/

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to The Episcopal Church of The Ascension.