William Hilliary “Billy” Hudson, Jr., age 79, passed away on January 9, 2023. Billy is survived by his wife, Diane Ostner Hudson, and by his three children Trey Hudson (Allie), Lauren Petty, and Lise Greene (Jim); his three grandchildren Wilder Hudson, LouLou Greene, and Jimbo Greene.
Billy was born in Decatur, Alabama in 1943 to Alice & Bill Hudson. He grew up in the close-knit community of Courtland, Alabama and attended Decatur High School. He graduated from the University of Kentucky, where he played football and earned his degree in Agricultural Economics. Immediately upon graduation he went to work for DuPont AgChemicals in sales and marketing, living and working throughout the United States. He found his way back in the 1980s and moved home to Courtland, where he raised cattle and eventually retired from DuPont to focus on farming.
One of his great loves was travelling, especially the American West. He spent 30+ years deer and antelope hunting and guiding other hunters in Wyoming. He traveled all over the globe, including Europe and Africa. His greatest adventure was his pilgrimage to Israel where he was baptized in the Jordan River.
Billy was a servant leader, always giving to others his time, wisdom, and love. He lived his faith in Christ. He was an active member of Decatur First United Methodist Church. He served with the Alabama Emmaus community and Kairos Prison ministry. He volunteered for both the Neighborhood Christian Center and Hospice of the Valley and served on the board of the Mental Health Association. He assisted with the Saddle Up for St. Jude annual fundraiser in Tuscumbia. Billy genuinely loved helping others and helping others to know Christ.
Funeral service will be Thursday January 12, 2023 at 11:00am at Decatur First United Methodist Church with Alex Beaube and Toby Chastain officiating. Private family graveside will follow at Courtland City Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Jim Greene, Will Greene, Jeff Greene, and Mac Greene. Memorials can be made to Hospice of the Valley or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
Hartselle Heritage Funeral Home is assisting the family.
1 comment
RIP Billy. I followed Billy in the RR group of DuPont. He left some big shoes, or should I say boots to fill. My thoughts and prayers are with Billy’s family and friends.