Donald Eugene Hudson, Sr. was born on February 17, 1933, in Toledo, Ohio, and passed into glory on March 11, 2026 at his home of nearly 50 years in Cary, NC. He was raised in Alabama, a place that shaped his roots, his values, and his lifelong love of Alabama football. As a young man, Don served his country with honor in the United States Navy from 1950 to 1953. After his service, he followed a pastoral calling for a season before beginning his primary career with IBM in 1965. He worked there faithfully until his retirement, building a steady, hardworking life marked by devotion to his family and commitment to providing for them. Don was known for his loving and generous spirit, his strong opinions, his stubborn determination, and his deep reverence for God. He collected coins, cheered passionately for Alabama football, and regularly invested his carpentry talents at home and in hurricane relief. He was active in his church throughout his adult life, grounding his days in faith and community. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jo Clark Hudson (born Betty Joann Clark), whom he married in November of 1953 and with whom he shared sixty eight years of partnership. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Charles Frank Hudson and Mary Frances Gentle Hudson, and by his brother, Dale Hudson. Don is survived by his daughter, Angela Hudson Kennedy; son, Donald Eugene Hudson, Jr.; grandchildren Andrew (Mingen) Ferguson, Lindsey (Matthew) Heinz, Rachel Kennedy, and Karen (Jared) Barnes; and five great-grandchildren, Madeleine Ferguson; Naomi, Scarlett and Jacob Heinz; and Magnolia Barnes. Don lived a long, full life marked by faith, family, and steadfastness. Those who knew him will remember his devotion, his generosity, and the unmistakable strength of his presence. A visitation will be held on Thursday, March 19, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at Montlawn Funeral Home (2911 S. Wilmington Street, Raleigh, NC). The family will gather for a private burial, followed by a Memorial Service open to all on Friday, March 20, at 3:00 p.m. at Ambassador Presbyterian Church (1010 Schieffelin Road, Apex, NC).