A Fallen First Cousin -- Joe Hudson

(See this blog October 22, 2022)

In Loving Memory of Joseph Hudson

August 27, 1933 – June 20, 2025
Joseph Hudson passed away on June 20, 2025, at the age of 91. He was a hardworking man, a loving husband, father and grandfather. Joe was born in Galena, Kansas and later settled in Trona, California. After serving in the U.S. Armed Forces from 1952 to 1954, he returned to Trona where he met his life partner Ruby Delores Sizemore. They married on October 22, 1955, and had three daughters, Vicki (who passed in 2022), Deborah, and Belinda.
After serving "Uncle Sam", as he always put it, Joe began a long and loyal career at Kerr McGee. He worked there for over 56 years, and during that time he built a reputation of being one of the plant's most trusted and dependable workers-never missing a single day of work. That kind of dedication is rare, and it showed just how much pride he took in doing things the right way.
But for Joe, family always came first. He wasn't just "Grandpa"-he was a constant source of support, always present, always involved. He and Delores not only raised their three daughters, but also five of their grandchildren, who they guided with patience, strength, and love. He made time to take his grandkids on fishing trips and RV road adventures across the country. Those trips weren't about fancy destinations, they were about sharing stories and spending quiet moments together. He showed his grandkids the importance of being there, of listening, and of making memories that last.
Joe and Delores shared a long life together. Even after her passing in 2017, Joe remained a strong example of loyalty and love for his family.
He is survived by two of his three daughters, five of his six grandchildren, George, Jennifer, Nadean, Joseph, and Louis (Baby Aaron passed in 2003), thirteen great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. He also leaves behind two of his three siblings: his younger brother Chuck and youngest sister Edna. The eldest brother, Norman passed in 1947.
Joe's roots stayed in Trona, even after he and Delores moved to Ridgecrest. Joe always made a point to keep close ties with the people and places that mattered the most. His legacy is one of hard work, quiet strength, and deep love for his family. He was a man you could count on-a rock for those around him.
He will be missed more than words can say.

Amen. 

FYI: Joe actually started out at Stauffer Chemical Co. at Westend, Calif. I believe that same place later became under the umbrella of Kerr-McGee. He had a short marriage prior to Delores but I don't recall her name. I go way back with him. It's a hard loss.