James "Jim" Hudson

James Wallace "Jim" Hudson was born on July 8, 1948, in Belleville, Kansas, to Max Wayne and Dixie Ella Louise (Ahrens) Hudson. He grew up in Munden and graduated from Munden High School with the class of 1967. After graduation, he briefly worked for the Rock Island Railroad before being inducted into the U.S. Army in January 1969. Following his discharge 19 months later, he returned to work for the Rock Island Railroad.

On August 18, 1973, Jim married Gayle Ann Nelson at the Ada Lutheran Church, and they had two daughters, Karey and Kayla. Jim continued his career in the railroad industry, working for both the Rock Island Railroad and the Kyle Railroad, where he retired as a foreman.

Jim was a member of the Courtland Masonic Lodge and later joined Belleville Masonic Lodge #129 A.F. & A.M. He was also active in the American Legion and the VFW.

James passed away on June 11, 2025, at the age of 76. He was preceded in death by his wife, Gayle, in 2020, his parents, his brother, Wayne Hudson, his wife, Sherry, his sister, Roberta Craig, and his sister, Rachel Hoffmeyer.

He is survived by his daughter, Karey Padding, and her husband, Mark, of Andover, along with their children, Gavin, Mari, Gage, and Maelyn. Additionally, he is survived by Kayla McCartney and her husband, Brian, of Belleville, along with their children, Dylan and Mia. He is also survived by his brother, Fred Hudson, and his wife, Sharon; his brother, Albert Hudson, and his wife, Judy; his sister, Brenda Keim, and her husband, Melvin; his brother-in-law, Roger Hoffmeyer; his brother-in-law, Lonnie Craig; his sister-in-law, Linda Nelson; and his sister-in-law, Lynette Engelbert, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Jim was a warm and welcoming soul who never met a stranger. His greatest joy came from spending time with family and friends, antiquing, and cheering on his grandkids during their sports events. He often found solace in pacing from room to room, captivated by the thrill of a nail-biting KU basketball game. A true hometown foodie at heart, he savored every meal, particularly the comforting breakfasts and lunches from Anteaques, and had a special fondness for cherry pie and delightful homemade kolaches.

Jim was not only an accomplished trap shooter but also a dedicated supporter of the local community, always eager to lend a hand. He took great pleasure in rocking his grandchildren to sleep in his recliner, creating memories that will be cherished forever. His deep love for family and friends was palpable, and his absence will leave an undeniable void in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be truly missed and fondly remembered.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, June 16, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., at Ada Lutheran Church, located in rural Courtland. Burial with military honors will follow at the Ada Lutheran Church Cemetery.

Visitation will take place on Sunday, June 15th, from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with the family greeting friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home in Belleville.

Memorials are requested to the James Hudson Memorial, with designations to be determined later. Contributions may be mailed to Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 566, Belleville, Kansas, 66935.

Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home is assisting the Hudson family with arrangements. www.tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com