Donald Damond Hudson

Don spent most of his youth in Osceola, Missouri before moving to Battle Creek, Michigan. This is where he joined the United States Marine Corp, proudly serving from January 1968 until August 1972, during the Vietnam Conflict.

Don was preceded in death by his father, stepfather, and mother, Daisy Swafford; his brother, Allen Hudson; and his grandparents, Andy and Beulah Smith.

Survivors include his wife of 21 years, Rita; Daughter, Heather Hudson and her children, Daughter Desireè (Travis) Roller and their children Charli & Lincoln; Daughter, Dayna Brooks and her daughter Claire; Stepson, Steven Oxley; sister, Carol (Ralph) Lisenby and several nieces and nephews.

When Don joined the room, you knew it! He was impossible to miss standing at 6ft 4in tall with striking blue eyes, if his physical presence didn’t catch your attention his booming laugh, usually, followed by one of his own witty clever jokes, would stop anyone in their tracks. He was the kind of man you wanted to know and definitely wanted to fight on your side. Tough, smart, relentless with a heart as big as his laugh.

Don had enormous love and adoration for his family, especially his daughters and grandchildren.

He had a great deal of pride for being a US Marine, serving his Country as well as his faith in God. His journey through this life was not always an easy one, but Don always managed to overcome his struggles. His path led him to his forever love when he met his wife, Rita, whom many would say saved his life. She without a doubt helped him become a better man, father and grandfather.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, May 16th, 2023,11:00 am at White Chapel Funeral Home. Service to follow at 12:00 pm and a graveside service will take place 2:00 pm at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Higginsville, MO (Business 13 Hwy).

In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Donald’s name to the American Cancer Society.

The family would like to thank Don’s doctors Dr. Marci Allen and Dr. Krishna Reddy for their love, compassion, and care.