Uncle JB was a wonderful man and I truly enjoyed the time I had with him although it was not enough.  I will always remember the Spring Break of '86 when he and Trell hosted me at their home in VA.  I enjoyed the tour of the Pentagon and riding in carpool with JB at 3am so we could beat the DC traffic!  He was a wonderful brother to my mother and she enjoyed the times he and Trell would come to see her and my dad in NC on their trips between DC and Florida.  The stories they would tell!  My deepest sympathies to Trell, Cindy, Greg, Chris and all the family.  I know how much JB was loved.

Tammy Zucco

I am so sad to hear of the passing of this great man.  As the Administrative Assistant to the Secretary of the Army, JB was one of the most powerful leaders at the Pentagon during my tenure there. He was legendary for his mastery of the Defense Department and beyond.  As a remarkable leader who could handle any problem with excellence and had an endless list of major accomplishments, he was extraordinarily modest.  When presented with a situation or issue that seemed unsolvable, he never hesitated to take it on as “an opportunity to excel.”    How I miss hearing those words.  JB had a kind heart and good nature.  No one passed him in the hall without an acknowledgment, no matter how busy he was or what crisis was at hand.   He was an amazing person and I could go on forever about his negotiating and administrative skills, his selflessness, his loyalty to the country, and his standard of excellence in everything he did.  He will be missed by many who crossed his path and I feel fortunate to be one of those.  The world was a better place with JB in it.  RIP good friend.
Janice Joyner
Personal Assistant to Former SecArmy Togo D. West, Jr.

JB was a man of quiet strength and steadfast generosity. His impact was felt in the comfort of his home, warmth of his presence, and unforgettable memories he helped create.  His actions made people feel safe, valued, and loved. For those of us lucky enough to know JB, we carry that love with us. 

JB believed in simple joys — like sitting in his special chair, watching a NASCAR race, or teeing off on the golf course. Some of my happiest memories are of sitting beside JB at a lodge in Disney World, countless drives to Disney World in the family van, and sharing laughter over family meals. 

JB is a reminder that sometimes the greatest gifts are the simplest ones, whether it be a safe place to land, a steady presence, or the warmth of someone who makes you feel like family.  His legacy continues in the warm-hearted nature of his children and grandchildren, and all the lives he touched in myriad ways. 

Condolences to Trell, Gregg, Cyndi, Chris, JB’s grandchildren & great grandchildren, and the rest of the family. 

Here’s to the man whose heart was even bigger than his VHS collection.

I had the honor of meeting Mr. Hudson in person in 2016, what an amazing gentleman, a true hero. We sat at the same table for hours having long conversation, he was one of the smartest and most pleasant person. 

Even if I had not met him in person, just knowing how well he raised Chris would have told about his greatness. Takes a great person to raise a great child,  Chris is a proof of Mr. Hudson being such a great person. 

May God bless his soul and give the family the courage to bear the loss.

JB Hudson will forever be honored in our memories as an extraordinary leader, mentor and friend.   His long tenure as the Administrative Assistant to the Secretary of the Army and the impact he made leaves a tremendous legacy.  He brought a genuine sense of selflessness to every role he held and his impact was profoundly positive.  He will be missed more than words can express.  JB Hudson was a remarkable Patriot and a true National Treasure.  Godspeed JB, and may love and comfort surround your Family.   

Jerry and Kim O’Keefe

J.B. Was a great man and a good friend. Always there to help anyone. Hod bless his soul and entire family. Bob and Jennie Aylward

I knew Mr Hudson only slightly but sensed his was a legacy of laughter and love. Especially love. 
My deepest condolences to Gregg and Heather and Cassidy and the entire Hudson family.

JB, was an amazing friend.  Always checking in on myself and my career but more importantly my family.  A true gentleman who will be missed by all who knew him.

J.B., Gregg and J.B. junior (Jackson Bailey) at Richmond Raceway

My deepest condolences to JB’s family .  He was a force to be reckoned with at the Pentagon on 9-11.   He went to every funeral for those we lost that day especially many of them in the OAA Family that was decimated on that fateful day.  My office was directly across from his and I would often see him thru  the window   across the next ring of the Pentagon from me as I sat at my desk.. he would look up and take the time to wave hi to me.  He was a humble man of great importance  and recognized everyone’s abilities.   He was always happy to say hi or and wave when passing you by in the hallways even.   He was just a delightful person to work for and I felt  privileged to have known him and worked with him many years.    May he rest in peace .. he will be missed by all the lives he touched.

I’m very sorry for your loss.  May happy memories bring you comfort & peace. 
Sheila
xo

OBITUARY

Joel Blaney Hudson

September 29, 1939 – March 4, 2025

Mullins & Thompson Funeral Service

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