Leonard McMorris Hudson

OBITUARY “I have fought a good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there has been laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.” 2 Timoth4:7-8 A TIME TO BE BORN The life of Leonard (Linto) McMorris Hudson was a life of love, joy, laughter, priceless moments, and lasting memories. The youngest of four children, he was born to the late Carl and Bobie Ruth McMorris Hudson on August 29, 1954. A TIME TO GROW He spent his childhood growing up in the communities of Babylon and Josey Creek, where he gained his spiritual foundation and his extreme sense of family bond and devotion. He accepted Christ at the Josey Creek Missionary Baptist Church around age 13. His early education was received at Henderson Elementary and Ward Middle School, Linto’s interest for building and gifted hands became evident as a young boy where he was introduced to carpentry under the tutelage of Uncle Will, the experiences provided by Mr. Moore, and the built wooden chairs that were used as the family’s porch furniture. Leonard attended Henderson High School for 9th grade but transferred to Starkville High School after integration, for 10th grade. He graduated from Starkville High School in 1972. After graduation, he chose to further his education at “THE” Jackson State University in Jackson, MS. His 4 years there proved to be productive. In 1974, he became a member of the Alpha Beta Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma, and in 1976, he graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Industrial Arts. In 1976, he began his career in Education. He taught Industrial Arts and Math at R.L. Norris Middle School in Thomson, GA. During his 10 years there, his teaching skills enabled students to further their educational goals and endeavors. Many of his students competed in state competitions for woodworking and received numerous awards. Also, at middle school, Leonard initiated and advised the Vocational Club which serviced and cultivated students interested in woodworking. In 1986, he changed careers and began working at Greenfield Industries as an Industrial Engineer. He worked there for 10 years and obtained Supervisor status. In 1998, he returned home to Starkville. Upon returning home, he started his own business, A to Z Construction. He operated his business until his retirement in 2020. A TIME TO SOW Leonard loved the Lord which was evident in his church attendance, support, and participation at Josey Creek Missionary Baptist Church. During the time he lived in Georgia, he united with Second Providence Baptist Church in South Augusta, NC where he ministered by singing with the Male Choir. When he returned home, he was proud to reunite with Josey Creek Baptist Church. Under the leadership of Pastor Timothy Daniels, he was instrumental in the inception of the Josey Creek Male Choir, He loved singing – at home and church. He was a dedicated member of the Male & Gospel Choirs. He was a regular Sunday School, Sunday Morning Worship, and Bible Study attendee. He was also an active member of the Laymen’s and Usher Ministries. In his early, teen, and young adult years, he was very active at Josey Creek Missionary Baptist Church where he participated in church programs and played on the infamous Josey Creek Softball Recreation Team. -Leonard left an undeniable mark on all who were fortunate enough to meet him, he was guaranteed to make you smile and laugh with his humor, interaction, and overall zeal for life. A TIME TO LOVE Leonard served his family as a devoted father, son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. In 1978, the Lord blessed him with one amazing son. Eric Tirrell Hudson, from a previous marriage to Elmyria Boyd. He provided his family with unconditional love and support. His love was not limited to his immediate family but was also shared with his extended family and beyond. A TIME TO HARVEST Leonard completed his earthly assignment and was received by his Lord and Savior on Saturday, January 20, 2024, to reap the rewards from his Lord and Savior. A TIME TO MOURN He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Bobie Ruth Hudson; brother, Cleveland Hudson; and sister, Darlene Hudson Perkins. He leaves to cherish his memories one son, Eric Hudson, Augusta, GA; one sister, Helen Zuber, Starkville, MS; special siblings: Bobby (Helen) Hudson of Fayetteville, NC; Fredrick (Cheryl) Hudson of San Antonio, TX, Greg (Beneva) Hudson and Malinda Brown of Starkville, MS; John Hudson and Myrtle Hudson of Ann Arbor, MI, Ben Hudson of New Orleans, LA, Marcella Hudson of Lansing, MI, and Selma (Hugh) Davis of Jackson, MS; he also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends. “Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.” Matthew 5:5

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Leonard McMorris Hudson

August 29, 1954 - January 20, 2024