James A. "Jim" Hudson passed away on Monday, November 7, 2022 at the Missouri Veterans Home in Warrensburg.

Jim was born in Medicine Lodge, Kansas on November 19, 1932, the son of Evert and Mary Hudson. Jim grew up in Medicine Lodge and, after graduating from high school, attended Southwestern College in Winfield, Kansas on a football and track scholarship. His college education was interrupted following his junior year as he served in the U.S. Army from 1953-1955. He returned to Southwestern and graduated with a B.S. in Education in 1956.

Jim began his teaching career in Bushton, Kansas, teaching business and coaching football and track. After two years, he returned to college at Emporia State University (formerly KSTC) and earned a Master's Degree in Guidance and Counseling. It was there that he met Delores "Dee" Jones, whom he later married in Emporia in 1959.

The couple moved to Haven, Kansas where Jim served from 1959-1963 as Guidance Counselor for the Haven School System. Jim returned to college at the University of Arkansas to pursue additional education, earning an Education Doctorate in 1965. Jim then accepted a position at the University of Central Missouri (formerly CMSU) and retired as a Professor of Education in 1993.

Jim was known as an exemplary educator and was recognized for preparing future teachers and conducting in-service workshops for current teachers. In his 30+ years in the classroom at UCM, he touched the lives of countless students who continued to practice his teaching methods in their own classrooms.

Jim was known as an avid fisherman, fishing in numerous tournaments in various Missouri lakes. He also enjoyed preparing fish (fried or smoked) for family and friends. He was a devoted sports fan (particularly in football and track) and a late golf enthusiast. He enjoyed working in the yard and "toying" with gardening. Jim was known as a loving, generous person who cared about people and always showed compassion for others. Jim was a member of the First United Methodist Church where he taught Sunday School for 12 years, served on boards and committees, and sang in the choir.

Jim's pride was his sons as he participated in Scouting (earning honorary Mic-O-Say membership), coached baseball teams, "timed" events at their swim meets, and made certain they knew how to fish.

Jim is survived by his wife Dee; two sons Greg (Cynthia) and Jeff; four grandsons Dillon, Joe, Owen, and Wesley; and six great-grandchildren.

A private burial will be held at Warrensburg Memorial Gardens Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 12, 2022 at the First United Methodist Church in Warrensburg, Missouri. The family will receive visitors following the service.

Memorial contributions may be left to First United Methodist Church Building Fund or the University of Central Missouri James A. Hudson Excellence in Teaching Scholarship.