Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Eugene R. Hudson, a pillar of the Greenville community, was remembered for his lifetime of service and influence during a celebration of life service held on May 7 at Lomax Hannon Auditorium.

Born on Jan. 3, 1932, in Montgomery, Hudson passed away on April 30. He was a man of many talents and passions, dedicating over 60 years to funeral service and community leadership.

“Over the next few weeks, we will all read his obituary, review his accomplishments and accolades and hear stories about how he touched so many lives as he served faithfully throughout his lifetime,” said Carolyn Griffin, a family friend. “I will always honor and cherish the memories of all that he has done for me, my family and our communities.”

Hudson’s commitment to his community extended beyond his work in funeral services. He was the first black city council member elected in Greenville and played a pivotal role in various community initiatives, including drawing floor plans for an indoor sports building and advocating for a new school.

Eugene Hudson’s legacy also includes his dedication to education. He worked as a substitute teacher, taught and coached football and basketball and served as the Parks and Recreation Director of the City of Greenville. He was deeply involved in the educational programs of First Missionary Baptist Church and Trinity Lutheran School.

Hudson’s influence extended beyond Greenville. He was a past president of the Alabama Funeral Directors and Morticians Association, Inc. (AFD&MA), past district governor for District V of the National Funeral Directors & Morticians Association, Inc. (NFDMA) and a member of several other professional and community organizations.

“My father was so many things to people such as coach, councilman, teacher and friend,” said Hudson’s daughter, Dr. Alicia R. Brown. “But to me, he was just dad, who could brighten my worst day… I’m thankful for his sayings and the impact that he had on this community and my life.”

In 1956, Eugene married Clara G. Brown and together they opened Hudson Funeral Services in Greenville. Today, the business has two locations and continues to serve the community.

“Mr. Hudson, Mrs. Alice Shambray and the Senior Choir taught us the importance of learning and singing hymns,” Griffin said. “I can hear him singing ‘May The Works I’ve Done, Speak For Me’. They are speaking, Mr. Hudson.” 

Eugene R. Hudson is survived by his daughter, Dr. Alicia R. Brown and a host of other relatives and friends who will continue to cherish his memory.