Esther Pierce Hudgens, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones on June 6, 2025. Born on October 29, 1947, in Huntsville, Alabama, she was the daughter of the late Robert A. and Esther C. Pierce.
A proud graduate of Lee High School, Class of 1966, Esther met the love of her life, John Hudgens, during those formative years. They would have celebrated 58 beautiful years of marriage this year.
Esther was a longtime member of Holmes Street United Methodist Church, where her faith and community involvement were central to her life. She gave generously of her time and heart, serving in various civic organizations including GFWC AL du Midi Woman’s Club and on the Huntsville Pilgrimage Association Board. Her passion for her hometown and its history was reflected in all she did.
Professionally, Esther was a licensed Dental Hygienist and dedicated many years to serving others through her work. Her care and professionalism left a lasting impact on those she treated and worked alongside.
Esther had a creative spirit and a deep love for beauty, which she expressed through flower arranging—a hobby she pursued with joy and skill. She found peace and inspiration in crafting floral designs, often sharing her creations with loved ones and community events. She was also a devoted animal lover, especially to her cherished dog, Mory. Their bond brought her much comfort and companionship through the years.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Joseph C. Pierce. Esther is survived by her devoted husband, John Hudgens; her loving daughter, Sonya Hudgens Cox;her son-in-law, Doyle Cox; and her brother, Robert Pierce, Jr. She was the proud grandmother of Abigail Chapman (Jimmy) and Mary Sophia Cox, and delighted in her great-grandchildren, Adley Mae Chapman and John Doyle Chapman. Also left to cherish her memory are extended family, Cassandra Holman and family; her cousin, Tina Johnson; sisters-in-law, Peggy Hobbs, Susan (Tom) Whelchel, Laura (Tom) Hardy, and Julie Kenimer; along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and a host of treasured friends too numerous to name.
Esther’s warmth, generosity, and vibrant spirit touched all who knew her. Esther lived a full, joyful life, devoted to her family, friends, and faith. Her memory will be deeply cherished and carried in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know her.
Visitation will be from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. Monday, June 9, 2025, at Laughlin Service Funeral Home Chapel. The funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. Burial will be in Maple Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the building fund at Holmes Street United Methodist Church, 501 Holmes Avenue, Huntsville, AL 35801.
