Richard L Hudson

Richard L. (Dick) Hudson (87), a lifelong resident of St. Marys, passed away on January 11, 2022 at Joint Township District Memorial Hospital due to complications from a recent fall.  Dick is survived by his wife of 64 years, Ann, his four children, Mary Jo (Lynn) of Columbus, John (Reyline) of Celina, Sarah (Nick) of Powell, and Nancy (Erik) of St. Marys, his five grandchildren, Alex, Katie, Drew, Madi and Sean, his little dog, Clementine, and numerous nieces and nephews.  Dick was predeceased by his parents, Elra and Margaret Hudson, and his three brothers, Bob, Jim and Tom. 

Dick was a 1952 graduate of Memorial High School and a 1954 graduate of Elgin Watchmakers School.  For many years, Dick was the third generation owner of Hudson Jewelers, retiring in 2011 and passing the jewelry store baton to the fourth generation of his family, his daughter and son-in-law, Erik and Nancy Mauter, to keep the Store’s legacy of 125 years (and counting) going strong.  

Dick was an accomplished organist, serving as organist for St. Paul’s UCC in New Bremen for over 35 years, and prior to that time, serving at Trinity United Methodist Church in Lima for over 25 years, and a US Army Chaplain’s Assistant/Organist at Ft. Eustis in Virginia during his military service.  For many years, he was active with the Lima Chapter of the American Guild of Organists, organizing and performing in recitals regularly and working to help introduce young musicians to the art of organ playing.  

Dick is best known for his love of St. Marys and his willingness to help others and his community.  He was a longtime and active member of St. Marys Rotary, active with the St. Marys Garden Club, and always willing to help neighbors in need with a meal, clothing or a ride.  Dick was thrilled that the St. Marys Theater was being renovated and donated his beloved baby grand piano to the project.  He was also a regular at the OFCC at Pantry Pride.  Dick loved Roughrider football games and SMABB performances.  He was a big jokester, had nicknames for everyone, constantly reminded his kids of long lost family history through funny and colorful stories, and said he was best loved by old ladies and dogs.  Dick loved a good Manhattan, going out for any meal, and most types of junk food (when his wife was not looking).  He will be missed by his many friends and family members.

Dick’s family would like to thank the teams at JTDMH and Otterbein for their help and kindness.  Visiting hours for Dick will be held on Sunday, January 16, 2021 from 2:00-4:00 at Miller Funeral Home in St. Marys.  His funeral service, featuring several of his favorite organ music selections, will be held on Monday, January 17, 2022 11:00 am at St. Paul’s UCC Church in New Breman, with visitation at the church from 10:00-11:00 am before the service.  Dick’s family asks that, in lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the St. Paul’s UCC Organ Fund or the St. Marys Theater.