Kenneth was born January 20, 1937, in Winston County to Harvey Lee and Mavis Ingram Hudson. He was a member of Zion Chapel Pentecostal Church where he was frequently asked to sing “specials” and for many years, he led the singing at First Apostolic Church of Louisville. He answered the call of his country by serving in the United States Army both stateside and in Germany during World War II.
During his lifetime, he was employed by the United States Postal Service, Taylor Machine Works, M. L. Mills, Georgia Pacific Corporation, and Temtco Steel as a truck driver. He loved traveling, especially to the mountains; enjoyed his neighbor’s dog; was an avid antique car buff and was able to tell you where each car was made and particulars of that car. Mr. Hudson was always a gentleman and a joy to visit with. He was known as “Mr. Clean”, “Ken Daddy”, and “Granddaddy”. He was loved by so many. He was always a sharp dresser; kept an immaculate house, car, yard, and perfectly polished shoes. His wife, Betty, always told him that she thought he was the most handsome man she had ever seen! He was quick to smile, and was rarely without a quick and humorous comeback. Even when his health was in decline, he kept his bright-eyed countenance, sharp humor, and smile.
Kenneth is survived by his wife of 34 years, Betty Pettit Hudson of Louisville; three daughters, Leah Spinelli and husband, Mark, of Conway, Arkansas; Susan Simmons and husband, Jerry, of Graysville, Tennessee; Karla Rives and husband, Raney, of Madison, Mississippi; his son, Joey Griffin and wife, Angie; and his sister-in-law, Linda Hudson, all of Louisville. One of his greatest joys was being “Granddaddy” to his eight grandchildren: Audrey Chappell (Alex); Jodie Ross (Cody); Reagan Spinelli; Will Spinelli (Andrea); Andy Rives (Julie); Chandler Rives; Olivia Rives; and Madelyn Rives. He also leaves behind two great-grandchildren, Griffin Ross and Charlee Claire Chappell; as well as a host of nieces and nephews who always enjoyed his company. “Uncle Kenneth” knew how to keep the order with just the right balance of mischief added to the mix! He was preceded in death by the mother of his children, Eloise Reed Hudson; his parents; and his brother, Keith Hudson.
Serving as pallbearers are Cody Ross, Alex Chappell, Andy Rives, Chandler Rives, Will Spinelli, Kevin Hudson, and Cliff Hudson. Honorary pallbearers are Carl Higginbotham, Norman White, Chris Harrell, and the Morning Coffee Group at Hardee’s. Memorial contributions in honor of Mr. Hudson may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Tribute Program, P. O. Box 1000 Department 142, Memphis, TN 38148-0142.
Services are under the direction of Nowell-Massey Funeral Home, 724 North Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.
