Born in Lynchburg on September 20, 1938, he was the son of the late Russell E. Hudson and Mary Elizabeth Steuart Hudson.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 66 years, Gwendolyn “Gwen” Stennett Hudson; his son, Edward Scott Hudson; his sister, Joan Guilbert; and his grandson, Jeffrey Hudson.
He is survived by his two sons, Andy Hudson and his wife, Crystal, and Stephen Hudson and his wife, Phyllis; seven grandchildren, Wesley Hudson, Olivia Hudson, Elizabeth Hudson, Celeste Hudson, Krystle Harada, Nicole Hamlet, and Michelle St. John; six great grandchildren; and one brother, David Hudson and his wife, Patricia Schepman.
Rusty proudly served his country in the United States Army. He dedicated 28 years of service to General Electric and later retired from B & W after 17 years of faithful work. A lifelong member of Elon Presbyterian Church, his faith remained a guiding force throughout his life.
He found great joy in the simple blessings of life—spending time outdoors, tending to his garden, and sharing fellowship with his neighbors and friends. Rusty was known for his steady presence, kind heart, and deep devotion to his family. Above all, he was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose life was marked by faith, hard work, and quiet generosity.
A service celebrating his life and faith will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at Elon Presbyterian Church. Interment will follow in Fort Hill Memorial Park with military honors provided by American Legion Post 16.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. Monday at Whitten Monelison Chapel.
Those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider Elon Presbyterian Church.
