William Hudson

William Henry Hudson, musician, mentor, husband, father, and friend—was born on July 25, 1942, in Jacksonville, Florida, to the loving union of Nell Rebecca Marshall Hudson and Henry Hudson. As the eldest of five children, William grew up on Jacksonville’s Eastside where his early years at Oakland Elementary and later at Matthew William Gilbert High School, Class of 1960, laid the foundation for a life marked by talent, dedication, and heart.

Gifted with extraordinary musical ability, William’s God-given talent earned him a scholarship to Florida A&M University. There, he flourished—earning his bachelor’s degree and rising to become the leader of the saxophone section in FAMU’s world-renowned marching band, the legendary “Marching 100.” Music was not simply something he played; it was the language of his spirit. It became the cornerstone of his life’s work and service.

William shared his passion by teaching music in various schools, shaping young minds and inspiring countless students. He also used music as a source of comfort and healing, bringing joy and therapeutic relief to senior citizens through his gifts. Whether in a classroom, a band room, or a community setting, he understood music’s power to connect, uplift, and restore.

Throughout the years, William’s journey took him to Middletown, Ohio; Virginia Beach, Virginia; and back to Jacksonville before he and his beloved wife, Rebecca, made their home in Brunswick, Georgia. There, they joined First Jordan Grove Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor John R. Fields. The church became a cherished spiritual home, surrounding William and Rebecca with friendship, fellowship, and steadfast support.

William was preceded in death by his parents; beloved daughter, Melania; brothers, Cedric D. Hudson and Maurice L. Hudson, Sr.; grandmother, Georgia Marshall; and nephew, Maurice L. Hudson, Jr. 

He will be remembered for his loving and caring spirit, his kindness, his quick wit, and his infectious laughter that could light up any room. His legacy of love and music lives on through his devoted wife, Rebecca; children, Susan Marie Simmons (Vincent) and Eric Christopher Hudson; and bonus son, Italy (Pamela) Small. He also leaves to cherish his memory: his brother, Ronald Hudson (Vera); sister, Sharon Hudson Timmons; sister-in-law, Hazel Hudson; grandchildren, Brittainy, Kianna (Stonny), Jasmine, Miyesha, Shatreze, and Michael; bonus grandchildren, Dell, Jerome, Keisha, and Geneva; greatgrandchildren, Camryn, Autumn, Kayden, and Alana; nieces and nephews, Jenelle, N’Gia (Monica), Ian, Gerrard, and ToSonya (Cary); bonus nieces and nephews, Terry, Debbie, and Xavier; along with many close cousins and wonderful friends. 

Though he has taken his final rest, the melody of William Henry Hudson’s life continues to play on in the hearts he touched, those he inspired, and the family he loved so dearly.