Tony R . Hudson

Tony R. Hudson, 71, of Palestine, died Sunday, September 15th, 2013 following an extended illness. Tony was born March 31, 1942 in Palestine to Isabelle Parker and Bert E. Hudson, who preceded him in death. He was married to Judith A. Lucas, formerly of Bloomington, Indiana, who survives. Tony was a retired engineer with the Illinois Central Railroad. He was the local chairman of the United Transportation Union for several years. Tony was also past president for the Crawford County Amateur Radio Club. He served his country as an infantryman with the National Guard. He was also preceded in death by grandparents Alta C. Cris and William B. Hudson of Palestine and Grace O. Burner and Charles G. Parker of Flat Rock, as well as many beloved aunts and uncles. Also surviving are daughters Julie and Dana Hudson of Lexington, Kentucky; his son, Andrew Hudson of Lexington, Kentucky; his stepson Matthew Lucas Hudson of Bloomington, Indiana; 8 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; sisters and brothers-in-law Judy and Jerry Baker of Auburndale, Florida, and Greta and Larry Dennison of Palestine. Also surviving is a close friend, former wife, and mother of his children, Jody Ransford of Lexington, Kentucky. An avid hobbyist, Tony raced stock cars in the area in the 1970's. Other hobbies included amateur and CB radio, motorcycles, computers, boating and quarter horses. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 19, 2013 at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine with Pastor Dennis Steckley officiating. Interment will be in the Palestine Cemetery. Friends and family may call from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday September 18, 2013 at the funeral home. Memorials can be directed to the Crawford County Humane Society or to the Crawford County Amateur Radio Club.